The NBA is making it easier than ever for fans to find and stream live games. The league announced the launch of Tap to Watch, a new digital initiative debuting with the 2025–26 season that will streamline how fans access live telecasts across multiple platforms. Beginning this season, Tap to Watch will serve as a direct pathway for fans to tune into games through the NBA’s own digital channels — including the NBA App, NBA.com, and team websites — as well as through national broadcast partners ABC/ESPN, NBC/Peacock, and Prime Video. Nearly all local broadcasts will also be integrated into the system.
According to the league, the feature will leverage the NBA’s growing digital ecosystem to remove friction for viewers and meet fans wherever they consume content. Partnerships with major digital and social platforms such as Google, Meta, X, Snap, Reddit, Roku, and Dapper Labs will help make live games accessible with just a single tap.
Further integrations with FanDuel, Fanatics, Yahoo Sports, and other connected TV partners are also planned as the season progresses.
“We’re proud to collaborate with our partners across the NBA digital ecosystem to make live games more accessible for our fans with Tap to Watch,” said Chris Benyarko, NBA Head of Direct-to-Consumer Products, Technology & Operations. “Whether scrolling social media, using the NBA App, or checking scores on a partner platform, fans will know exactly where our games are and be taken directly to them.”
The process for fans is straightforward. When visiting the NBA’s digital platforms, users will see clear viewing options tailored to their location. A simple “Watch” button on game and schedule pages will route them to the appropriate streaming service. Whether that’s a national broadcast, a local affiliate, or NBA League Pass. Subscribers can begin watching instantly, while new viewers will have the option to sign up directly from that link.
On third-party platforms, watch prompts will appear organically within each partner’s interface. For example, a highlight clip on social media or a search result on Google could include a “Watch Live” option that leads directly to the live broadcast feed.
The NBA App will also feature Real-Time Scores. Complete with a live ticking clock that syncs with in-arena game time at virtually no latency. That addition is designed to give fans a more immersive experience as they navigate toward their live game destination.
With Tap to Watch, the NBA is leaning further into digital accessibility and convenience. Signaling a continued shift toward meeting fans where they already spend their time. It’s another example of how the league continues to blend technology, user experience, and content delivery to strengthen its connection with basketball fans worldwide.
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