Where to Watch NBA Games If You Live Outside Your Team’s Home Market
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If you’re an NBA fan who has moved cities, travels often, or simply supports a team far from where you live, you’ve likely run into the same problem: your game isn’t on local TV. This isn’t a glitch—it’s how NBA broadcast rights work.
The good news is that out-of-market NBA fans have clear, legal options to watch live games across devices. This guide breaks down where to watch NBA games outside your team’s home market, how blackout rules apply, and which option makes the most sense based on how you watch.
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| Where to watch NBA games outside |
What “Out of Market” Means in the NBA
In NBA terms, a game is considered out of market when:
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You live outside your favorite team’s designated broadcast region
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Local TV networks in your area do not carry that team’s games
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National broadcasts are showing different matchups
For example, if you live in Florida but follow a West Coast team, most regular-season games will be out of market for you.
Why NBA Blackout Rules Exist
Blackouts are not designed to punish fans. They exist to protect local broadcast rights, which are a major revenue source for teams.
Here’s how it works:
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Local games are reserved for regional sports networks
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National games override local restrictions
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Out-of-market games are distributed separately
Understanding this structure is key to choosing the right viewing option.
The Best Option for Out-of-Market Fans: NBA League Pass
NBA League Pass
NBA League Pass is the primary, official solution for watching out-of-market games.
What League Pass Includes
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Live streams of most out-of-market regular-season games
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Full-game replays and condensed versions
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Access on phones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs
Important Limitations
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Local games are blacked out in your home market
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National TV games are not available live on League Pass
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Some late schedule changes can affect availability
Who It’s Best For
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Fans following one non-local team
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Viewers who want reliable access all season
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People who watch across multiple devices
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Watching Nationally Televised NBA Games
Even if you live outside your team’s market, national broadcasts are available everywhere in the U.S.
These games:
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Are not subject to local blackout rules
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Are often scheduled in prime time
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Feature high-profile matchups
However, national games alone are not enough for fans who want to follow a specific team night after night.
Live TV Streaming Services: A Partial Solution
Live TV streaming platforms function like cable—but on mobile and connected devices.
What They Offer
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Access to national NBA broadcasts
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Local market games (based on your ZIP code)
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Cloud DVR features
What They Don’t Solve
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They do not unlock out-of-market games
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Coverage still depends on regional rights
Best use case: Pairing a live TV service with League Pass for full coverage.
Watching on Your Phone or Tablet
Out-of-market fans aren’t tied to a TV.
Most official NBA streaming options:
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Work on iOS and Android
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Support Wi-Fi and cellular data
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Allow replay viewing to avoid spoilers
If you travel frequently or work late hours, mobile viewing is often the most flexible solution.
How to Avoid Spoilers When Watching Out of Market
Many out-of-market fans watch games after tip-off or on replay.
Smart tips:
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Turn off score notifications in league and sports apps
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Use condensed replays if you’re short on time
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Avoid social media until you finish watching
League Pass offers spoiler-free modes designed for this exact situation.
Best Setup by Fan Type
You follow one out-of-market team
→ NBA League Pass (team-focused viewing)
You want every nationally televised game too
→ League Pass + live TV streaming service
You mostly watch highlights and replays
→ League Pass with on-demand viewing
You travel or watch on mobile
→ League Pass mobile access
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Assuming local TV will show your favorite team
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Expecting live TV apps to bypass blackout rules
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Waiting until game night to check availability
Planning ahead saves time—and frustration.
FAQs
What is an out-of-market NBA game?
An out-of-market game is one that isn’t broadcast by your local TV networks because the teams involved are outside your region.
Is NBA League Pass the only way to watch out-of-market games?
It is the most comprehensive and reliable option for regular-season out-of-market games.
Are playoff games available out of market?
Playoff games are usually carried nationally, reducing blackout issues.
Can I watch out-of-market games on my phone?
Yes. Official NBA streaming options fully support mobile devices.
Why are some games still unavailable even with League Pass?
Games shown on national TV or in your local market are subject to blackout restrictions.
Final Takeaway
If you live outside your favorite team’s home market, watching NBA games doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is understanding blackout rules and choosing a setup that matches how you watch.
For most fans, NBA League Pass is the foundation. Pair it with national broadcasts—and, if needed, a live TV streaming service—and you’ll have consistent access to your team all season long.
Once you stop fighting the system and start using the right tools, being an out-of-market NBA fan becomes far less frustrating—and far more enjoyable.
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