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NBA Playoffs 2025: How to Watch Post-Season Basketball Games Online Without Cable

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The NBA playoffs continues with the third round of play. The NBA Playoffs funnels down with the top four teams in the pro basketball league, including the Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference Finals and New York Knicks vs. Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals, all vying to hoist the highly-coveted Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy at the end of the season.

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Want to watch post-season games online? The 2025 NBA Playoffs broadcast live across ESPN, TNT and ABC.

If you’re a sports fan, there are plenty of affordable streaming options that offer NBA coverage live and on demand.

Read on for details on how to watch and stream the NBA playoffs without cable.

Where to Watch the NBA Playoffs 2025 Online

Those who have access to cable or satellite can stream games live, without paying out of pocket, depending on your streaming plan.

Can you watch ESPN, TNT and ABC without cable? Yes! You can stream those channels and more on DirecTV, Sling TV, and others.

Most streamers offer a free trial or a discount at sign up, so you won’t necessarily have to spend anything up front. To help you shop for the right package, we collected a short list of some of the more affordable streamers and what they offer for NBA fans.

How to Watch the NBA Playoffs 2025 on DirectTV

Join DirecTV with a five-day free trial to enjoy your favorite sports and other entertainment. The streaming service’s signature packages start with features more than 90 channels: ABC, TNT, ESPN, NBA TV, ESPN2, FS1, SEC, MLB Network, TLC, CBS, USA, Bravo, E!, BET, MTV and more for $84.99 per month.

Shopping for an upgrade? Subscribe to DirecTV’s Choice, Ultimate or Premiere signature packages to stream more channels. The Premier package also includes free Max, Starz, Paramount+ With Showtime and Cinemax. Learn more about DirecTV’s signature packages and genre packs here.

How to Watch the NBA Playoffs 2025 on Sling TV

Sling TV is another streaming option for sports fans on a budget. With Sling Orange + Blue package, you can stream ESPN, ESPN2, ABC, TNT and other channels for starting at $33 for the first month ($65.99 per month afterwards).

You’ll also get more than 45 other networks, including Disney Channel, ESPN2, NBC, Fox, TBS, Bravo, Discovery Channel, Fox News, MSNBC, National Geographic, USA Network, Fox Sports and more. Please note that channel availability and price depends on your local TV market. Learn more about Sling TV here.

In addition, Hulu + Live TV has more than 90 channels, plus access to ESPN+, Hulu and Disney+, and a free trial for three days. Verizon Fios, YouTube TV and T-Mobile are a few other options for live television, and if you’re streaming internationally, ExpressVPN will give you access to certain channels and streaming platforms.

Which Celebrities Are Making Appearances During NBA Playoffs?

It’s likely there will be a number of celebrities and famous recording artists in attendance during the NBA Playoffs, such as NY Knicks fans Spike Lee, 50 Cent and Fat Joe; and others. Tune in to the games to find out who’s sitting courtsideon celebrity row.

NBA Playoffs 2025 Schedule

The 2025 NBA Playoffs goes until late June for the NBA Finals. Check out a complete NBA Playoffs schedule here.

Want to watch NBA Playoffs games in person? Tickets are available on sites like StubHub, Gametime, SeatGeek and NBA.com.

For more product recommendations, check out our roundups of the best Xbox deals, studio headphones and Nintendo Switch accessories.

May 20, 2025

Culture  ·  sports
Paul George On Fatherhood, Mental Wellness And What Success Looks Like Beyond Basketball

NBA All-Star Paul George knows what it means to balance a packed professional life with the priorities of being a present parent. Between games, travel and training, George still finds time to center his role as a father.

“Balancing my career and fatherhood is one of the most rewarding challenges I’ve faced,” George told Blavity. “The NBA schedule is demanding, but I make it a priority to be fully present with my kids whenever I’m home—whether that’s helping with schoolwork, playing outside, or just spending time together without distractions.”

That intentional approach has shaped how he shows up in all areas of his life. “I’ve learned that being a great dad isn’t about the amount of time, but the quality of that time,” he said. “It’s made me more grounded, more patient, and more grateful for every moment—on and off the court.”

Why mental wellness is a priority for the NBA veteran

With the constant spotlight that comes with professional sports, George said he takes his mental health seriously and prioritizes balance.

“Mental wellness is just as important as physical health, especially in a high-pressure environment,” he said. “For me, a few non-negotiables are staying connected to my family, protecting my quiet time, and maintaining routines that help me reset—whether that’s meditation or just unplugging for a bit.”

These habits help him stay focused both on and off the court.

How his new partnership reflects family values

As George explores new ventures beyond basketball, he’s focused on projects that reflect his off-court values. His recent partnership with Kinder Chocolate centers on creating and celebrating simple moments with family.

Photo: Kinder Chocolate

“One of my favorite moments with my kids is actually pretty simple—we were all hanging out after dinner, and I brought out some Kinder Chocolate as a little treat,” he said. “What started as a quick dessert turned into this whole moment of laughter, storytelling, and just being present with each other. It wasn’t planned, it wasn’t a big event—but that’s what made it special.”

He added that this partnership felt meaningful because it aligns with how he approaches parenting. “Those small, everyday moments are what I value most as a dad,” George said. “That’s why this partnership with Kinder Chocolate feels so genuine—because it’s about celebrating those little connections that end up meaning the most.”

May 19, 2025

Culture  ·  sports
Jasmine Paolini’s Defeat Of Coco Gauff Makes Her The First Italian To Win Italian Open In 40 Years

Tennis star Jasmine Paolini made history on Saturday when she defeated Coco Gauff 6-4, 6-2 and became the first Italian player in 40 years to win the Italian Open. The feat hadn’t been achieved since Raffaella Reggi did it in 1985 in Taranto, the Associated Press reported.

“It doesn’t seem real to me,” Paolini, who is Italian, Ghanaian and Polish, said after her victory, per the Associated Press. “I came here as a kid to see this tournament but winning it and holding up this trophy wasn’t even in my dreams.”

Although she had several impressive victories in the tournament, Paolini acknowledged that this latest win was her strongest performance.

“Today was my best match of the week,” she said, “and I needed that to beat Gauff.”

The Italian star also showed love to her supporters, who chanted, “Ole, ole, ole, Jas-mine, Jas-mine,” as she made history.

“The crowd has been incredible,” Paolini said.

Gauff called Paolini an “incredible person and player” while addressing the crowd.

How did Jasmine Paolini climb the tennis rankings?

Paolini finished as runner-up at the French Open and Wimbledon as the fifth-ranked player. She also helped Italy clinch the Billie Jean King Cup title in 2024. At the Paris Olympics, Paolini won gold in doubles with her partner Sara Errani.

Gauff applauded Paolini for the progress she has made in her game over the years.

“I played her a long time ago in Adelaide,” Gauff said, per the AP. “I remember her playing a little bit more of a passive game style. Now she’s more aggressive.”

The American star added that her Italian opponent is still capable of ranking even higher.

“She is capable of playing top-two, No. 1 tennis,” Gauff said.

What’s next for Jasmine Paolini after her win at the Italian Open?

Paolini and Errani competed in the women’s doubles final on Sunday, defeating Veronika Kudermetova and Elise Mertens. Going into the French Open next weekend, Paolini will be ranked No. 4.

Jasmine Paolini becomes the first woman to win both the singles and doubles title in Rome since Monica Seles in 1990. She is also the 2nd woman to ever win both the singles and doubles titles in a WTA 1000 event since Vera Zvonareva in 2009. Insane. 🇮🇹❤️ pic.twitter.com/aSoLBJsoH0— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) May 18, 2025

May 19, 2025

Culture  ·  Opinion  ·  sports
Is Draymond Green Really Depicted As An Angry Black Man By The Media?

Once you’re in the NBA playoffs, it becomes anyone’s game. Any team has a chance to win a title, and it’s that hope that Golden State’s Draymond Green plays with. The fervor that the former defensive player of the year plays with is with that possibility in mind. I have great respect for that in a vacuum.

However, it’s that same fervor that, at times, has morphed into careless and violent play. So, when Green picked up one of his most recent technical fouls, it was met with disdain by him.

Some feel that Draymond Green’s foul didn’t show enough intent to harm to be labeled as a flagrant foul penalty 1.

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But what makes Green’s case a bit different is his propensity to be careless on the court. The four-time NBA champion has forged this path, hurting many along the way. From multiple kicks to players below the belt to choking Rudy Gobert for half of a basketball court. He even stomped on Domantas Sabonis, bruising his sternum during a game. Not to be outdone, Green then reacts as if he did nothing. Sort of like a 1980s heel Ric Flair.

Draymond Green’s reputation has clearly preceded him

What I’ve highlighted is, quite frankly, the tip of the iceberg. But somehow, Green used his being reprimanded as an opportunity to say that he will not be painted as an “angry Black man.” After not speaking to the media that night in Minnesota, he went on that short rant. He has a knack for trying to manipulate the narrative as many players strive to do in this era. In some instances, I find it to be admirable. But in the immortal words of Katt Williams, “Do you know I can see you?”

May 18, 2025

books  ·  Culture  ·  sports
New Book Says Caleb Williams Went To Great Lengths To Avoid Getting Drafted By Chicago Bears

Sports reporter Seth Wickersham’s new book, American Kings: A Biography of the Quarterback, revealed that Caleb Williams resisted being selected by the Chicago Bears ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft.

In 2024, the NFL drafted the quarterback first overall. According to the Associated Press, Wickersham’s book is set for a September release. It’s being published under Hyperion Avenue, an imprint of Walt Disney Co. American Kings provides some surprising insights into Williams’ views on the Bears before joining their roster.

“Chicago is the place quarterbacks go to die,” Williams said before the 2024 NFL Draft, according to Wickersham’s book.

Caleb Williams’ father allegedly tried to steer him away from the Chicago Bears

Wickersham wrote that Williams and his father, Carl Williams, tried to avoid getting drafted by the Bears. They reportedly sought legal counsel to identify loopholes in the NFL’s collective bargaining agreement, explored a signing opportunity with the United Football League and even considered publicly bashing the Bears — hoping the team would no longer be interested in the athlete. 

Concerns about Shane Waldron, the Bears’ offensive coordinator at the time, made Williams question whether a working relationship with the team was even possible. That uncertainty eventually reached Bears general manager Ryan Poles, who responded directly by saying, “We’re drafting you no matter what.”

Caleb Williams’ doubts about the Chicago Bears disappeared after visiting the city

After visiting the Bears’ training facilities and meeting his potential teammates, Williams had a change of heart.

“I can do it for this team,” Williams told his father, per American Kings. “I’m going to go to the Bears.”

During his rookie season, Williams threw for 20 touchdowns and six interceptions while enduring a league-high 68 sacks. The Bears struggled throughout the year, enduring a 10-game losing streak and ending with a 5-12 record. The Bears terminated Shane Waldron after nine games, and three weeks later, head coach Matt Eberflus was fired.

In January 2025, the Bears brought on former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as their new head coach. Declan Doyle, previously an assistant with the Saints and Broncos, was named offensive coordinator.

May 18, 2025

Culture  ·  Opinion  ·  sports
Here’s Why Michael Jordan Joining NBC Sports Is So Special

This has been an exciting week for the NBA as the playoffs rage on. But there was also some courtside news that dropped with NBC reporting they signed Michael Jordan for the upcoming NBA season. He’ll serve as a special contributor, marking his first media role in his career. It’s a ground-shaking announcement that further bolsters NBC Sports’ basketball coverage with an already all-star cast of talent.

Tom Brady walked so that Jordan could run

As Tom Brady, widely regarded as a GOAT quarterback, transitioned to television following his retirement in February of 2023. Now it has been 22 years since Jordan’s retirement. He missed LeBron James’ rookie season by a New York minute. Often known for playing the background in retirement, Jordan became the first Black majority team owner in professional sports. He had that ownership stake in the Charlotte Hornets. In August 2023, Jordan sold his stake in the franchise, which seemingly freed him up for other projects.

Brady is in a 10-year $375 million deal with Fox. It hasn’t been disclosed how much the deal for Jordan was with NBC. But with those metrics readily available for basketball’s “GOAT,” I’m sure that he took a look. I wouldn’t be surprised if those numbers served as a catalyst for Jordan signing on.

We have an opportunity now that we haven’t had before.

In a league that still features all-star play from Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry and LeBron James, we have Jordan now on the mic. We will now get his most recent perspectives on the game today, analyzed by a man who has never lost in the NBA Finals.

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As Disney and Amazon are also shuffling talent around for the upcoming season, NBC knew they had to hit a home run. The relationship between Jordan’s greatest successes and NBC are well documented. NBC ran the NBA Finals for all of Jordan’s six championship series.

Now we’ll be able to re-hash more GOAT debates, won’t we?

We may look to Jordan to sort of be the conscience of the NBA. What makes this so intriguing in the beginning is wondering which type of Jordan we’ll be getting. Will it be a Jordan that’s giving his perspective as a trash-talking competitor? Or will he be more polished and similar to most analysts these days? From what I’ve seen and believe, it takes some time to find your voice and tone in this media landscape. We’ve seen it from Shaquille O’Neal to Reggie Miller and Chris Webber. It could take a while, or Jordan could be one take Drake with it. Time will tell.

All I know is that by hook, or by crook, the GOAT is returning to NBC, and every time he does, he’ll look to make it count.

May 15, 2025

Culture  ·  sports
Who Is Stefon Diggs? Get To Know The NFL Star Recently Seen Cozying Up To Cardi B

If you’re a fan of NFL football, you’re likely already familiar with Stefon Diggs. The 31-year-old Maryland native, best known for his work with the Minnesota Vikings and the Buffalo Bills, has been a fixture in the league since he was chosen as a fifth-round draft pick back in 2015. Those outside the NFL zeitgeist may have heard the name after Diggs was seen with hip hop superstar Cardi B.

Either way, you may find yourself intrigued by the life and legacy of the prolific NFL wide receiver. If this is the case, be sure to read ahead. We’ll break down everything you need to know about Stefon Diggs, including his relationship status, history on the field and NFL contract salary.

Maryland native was drafted to the NFL in 2015

(Jerry Holt/Star Tribune via Getty Images)

Long before Stefon Diggs was catching passes and running dashes, he was born to a humble family in Montgomery County, Maryland. Diggs developed an early love for football and even closed out his high school career with MVP of the U.S. Army All-American honors. He also had a highly impressive record running track and field.

However, it rapidly became clear that football was Diggs’ true passion. He agreed to attend the University of Maryland College Park campus in 2012. Diggs stayed close to home to help raise his younger brothers. Their father tragically passed away when he was a teenager. While speaking to USA Today back in 2014, the rising star shared, “He never even got to see me play a high school game… When I was in the third grade, he bet me. He said, ‘I guarantee you’ll have 10 shoeboxes full of college letters.’ … I had even more than he said.”

Indeed, Stefon Diggs was a highly sought-after candidate for college football. He received full scholarship offers from over half a dozen prestigious universities. This meant Diggs was considered a five-star recruit who maintained a stellar record while at the University of Maryland.

By the time Diggs was ready to declare for the NFL draft, he was leading his team in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns. He was ultimately drafted by the Minnesota Vikings. Aftereard, he went on to play for the Buffalo Bills, Houston Texans and most recently the New England Patriots. In his NFL career, Diggs made waves as the league leader in receptions. This was particularly evident during the 2020 season, which saw him make 127 picks and 1,535 receiving yards.

Does Stefon Diggs have kids?

Since Stefon Diggs spent so much time taking care of his own brothers over the years, it only makes sense that he’d make an excellent parent to his own children. Per a write-up in AOL, Diggs does have one daughter, named Nova, who was born in 2016. There doesn’t seem to be much public information regarding Nova’s mother. Still, we can surmise that she and Diggs are no longer together romantically.

Nova has been seen at NFL games to cheer her dad on and has also appeared at events alongside Diggs. The pair tend to wear matching outfits and show off their keen sense of style and team spirit through numerous social media posts.

What’s going on with Cardi B and the New England Patriots player?

Though there’s never been any 100 percent confirmation from either party, it seems clear that Cardi B and Stefon Diggs have been engaged in an on-again, off-again romance for some time. The pair were first seen together back in October of 2024. At the time, Cardi denied any rumors of a romantic element to their friendship.

Since then, however, the wide receiver and the “WAP” vocalist have been caught arm-in-arm at multiple events, including a Met Gala after-party, a Coachella getaway and even a Miami hotel during Valentine’s Day, 2025. As far as most fans are concerned, Stefon Diggs and Cardi B are seeing each other casually. While there may be room to expand their relationship with direct labels, they’ve both been coy thus far.

What is Diggs’ salary?

Like many NFL all-stars, Stefon Diggs’ salary has continued to expand. Back in 2015, he signed with the Minnesota Vikings for a projected salary of over $600,000 per year. His contract was extended in 2018, guaranteeing him a staggering $72 million over the course of the following five years.

According to NBC Sports Boston, Diggs’ current contract with the New England Patriots guarantees over $63 million for three years, with a number of added bonuses for yardage requirements and reception benchmarks. Suffice is to say, Diggs certainly brings in the kind of cash that could accommodate Cardi B’s lavish lifestyle, should the duo ever decide to make their fling official.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Stefon Diggs wear number 14?

These days, Diggs has donned the number 8 jersey as a receiver for the Patriots. Despite this fact, the vast majority of his NFL and college career was spent with the number 14. Though we don’t know his exact reasoning for choosing this number, Stefon Diggs has confirmed in the past that his choice to rock 14 was deeply personal and relates to his journey and key figures in his life. Even though he has shed this figure for the number 8, Diggs’ legacy will always be intertwined with the symbolism of 14.

How many of Diggs’ brothers are in the NFL?

Stefon Diggs’ family carries an illustrious athletic history. His father, who passed away when Stefon was quite young, had an accomplished college basketball career at one time. Likewise, he has multiple brothers who have made a name for themselves on the football field in their own right. Most notably, Stefon’s brother Trevon Diggs has served as a cornerback for the Dallas Cowboys since 2020. Likewise, their brother Darez Diggs has played for the XFL and served as a defensive back for the Morgan State Bears during his time in college. Though Stefon is arguably the most high-profile member of the family, it just goes to show how far the Diggs family roots run deep in the world of pro football.

May 15, 2025

Culture  ·  sports
Here’s When The 2025 NFL Schedule Will Be Revealed And What We Know So Far

The NFL schedule release, one of the most anticipated parts of the offseason, is quickly arriving. On Monday, the NFL announced that the schedule will come out this week. In the meantime, fans will get to find out some of the most important dates on the schedules, USA Today reported.

What are some of the international matchups on the 2025 NFL Schedule?

NFL fans are already learning that the Miami Dolphins will play against the Washington Commanders in the first-ever American football game played in Madrid, Spain. According to USA Today, the matchup between the Commanders and the Dolphins will be one of seven international games on the 2025 schedule. The Los Angeles Chargers will take part in one of the international games when they face the Kansas City Chiefs in Sao Paolo, Brazil.

There’ll also be three NFL games in London with matchups that involve the New York Jets, Cleveland Browns and Jacksonville Jaguars. The Indianapolis Colts are expected to play in Berlin, Germany, while the Pittsburgh Steelers will play in Dublin, Ireland.

What is the opening night game on the 2025 NFL schedule?

The NFL will kick off the 2025 season Sept. 4 with a matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and their rivals Dallas Cowboys. NBC will broadcast it as part of its Sunday Night Football program, although it’s played on Thursday. The NFL has been opening the season with the defending champion since 2004.

What is the holiday schedule for the 2025 NFL season?

The NFL will play three games on Christmas Day. Two of the games will be broadcast on Netflix, per CBS Sports. The other Christmas game will stream on Amazon Prime. The Thanksgiving schedule will feature three games as well. Two of the teams playing on Thanksgiving will be the Cowboys and the Detroit Lions.

When will the 2025 NFL Schedule be revealed?

The 2025 NFL Schedule will be revealed on Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET.

May 14, 2025