The 2025-26 NBA season has started with a bang, attracting the highest number of viewers in 15 years during its first two weeks. Viewership for nationally televised games has seen a massive 92% increase compared to last year, showing a huge surge in fan interest across the board.
📈 A Surge in Popularity
This impressive growth is largely thanks to a new feature called “Tap to Watch.” This digital initiative was launched by the NBA to make it much easier for fans to find and access live games. The goal is to remove barriers and connect viewers directly to the action with a simple click.
📺 Making Games Easier to Find
“Tap to Watch” is designed to be simple and user-friendly. It works across the NBA’s own platforms, like the NBA App and official websites, as well as many popular third-party apps. It acts as a guide, seamlessly directing fans to the correct broadcast, whether it’s a national or a local game telecast.
🤝 A Wide Network of Partners
To make this happen, the NBA has teamed up with major digital platforms like Google, Meta, X, Snap, and Reddit. The feature connects fans to games on major broadcasters such as ABC/ESPN, NBC/Peacock, and Prime Video. More partners, including FanDuel and Yahoo Sports, are expected to join throughout the season.
🗓️ A Clear Weekly Schedule
For fans planning their week, the national TV schedule is now more consistent. Games are generally shown on Peacock on Mondays, NBC/Peacock on Tuesdays, ESPN on Wednesdays, Prime Video and ABC/ESPN on Saturdays, and ABC/ESPN and NBC/Peacock on Sundays, making it easier than ever to follow your favorite teams.
