The Thrill of Basketball in Germany: A Comprehensive Guide

As the NBA season approaches its tip-off on October 23rd, basketball fans in Germany are gearing up for an exciting time ahead. With a rich history of German talent in the league, including legends like Dirk Nowitzki and current stars such as Dennis Schröder and Franz Wagner, the interest in NBA basketball continues to soar. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to following all the exhilarating action from the hardwood courts of the NBA.

Get ready for the action-packed NBA season!

Where to Watch: The Options for NBA Fans

In Germany, fans will have multiple options to catch the NBA games. The rights to broadcast NBA games are shared among three different providers, ensuring that basketball enthusiasts can follow their teams and players closely. Both free and subscription-based services are available, each offering a variety of coverage.

Unleashing the League Pass

The NBA League Pass is the gateway to streaming games across various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. This service is available in two tiers: the standard League Pass at €18 per month, which includes advertising and limits you to one stream at a time, and the Premium option at €24 per month, which allows for ad-free viewing across three devices simultaneously. With the League Pass, fans can indulge in more than just regular games; they can also enjoy playoffs and other exciting events.

DAZN’s Exclusive Offers

The renowned sports streaming service DAZN will also offer exclusive NBA coverage throughout the regular season. Viewers can expect to catch seven live games a week, which translates to a game nearly every day. During the playoffs, DAZN ensures its subscribers are not left out—offering at least one playoff game per day and comprehensive coverage of the finals. Additionally, DAZN provides a 24-hour NBA channel where fans can catch up on highlights and enjoy events like the All-Star Game on February 16, 2025.

DAZN brings you closer to the game with live coverage and highlights.

Catching the Action on Free-TV

For those who prefer a traditional viewing experience, ProSieben and ProSieben MAXX are broadcasting over 50 live NBA games from the regular season, as well as playoff and finals matches. Games will often feature prominently during prime time on Saturday and Sunday evenings. In addition to linear television, NBA games can also be streamed live on ran.de, via the ran app, or on the streaming platform Joyn, making it accessible for many viewers across the country.

A Look Ahead: The NBA’s Future in Germany

The appeal of the NBA in Germany is foreseen to grow further with the league’s recent deal starting in the 2025/26 season. Reports indicate that the NBA has entered into a staggering $76 billion contract across eleven years with key partners including Walt Disney, NBCUniversal, and Amazon. This monumental agreement will enhance the NBA’s reach in Germany, allowing more fans to witness the thrill of basketball.

Women’s Basketball: The Liberty Stand Tall

The excitement in the basketball arena is not confined to the NBA alone. The WNBA is also making waves, especially with the New York Liberty. In a gripping finals matchup against the Minnesota Lynx, the Liberty leveled the series after a strong display of skill and determination—led by standout performances from Leonie Fiebich and Breanna Stewart. Fiebich’s crucial three-pointer late in the game underscored the firepower of the Liberty, showcasing the intensity and skill that women’s basketball has to offer.

In front of a record crowd of 18,040 fans at the Barclays Center, the Liberty demonstrated that they are a force to be reckoned with, melding their offensive prowess with steadfast defense to secure victory as they vie for their first championship title.

The atmosphere heats up during WNBA finals as teams clash for glory.

The German Basketball League: A Local Perspective

As we dive deeper into the world of basketball, we should also spotlight the German Basketball League (BBL), where local teams and emerging stars make their mark. Recently, the German vice-champions Alba Berlin narrowly avoided a shocking upset in the BBL Cup, pulling off a last-minute victory over the second-division side Hakro Merlins Crailsheim. While Alba showcased their resilience, Bayern Munich also stamped their authority in a tight match against Telekom Baskets Bonn, thanks to a stellar performance from Carsen Edwards.

These local competitions continue to captivate audiences, highlighting the rich tapestry of basketball culture not just in the U.S. but also across Germany. As we delve further into the season, it is clear that the enthusiasm for basketball remains robust, bridging leagues, styles, and fans in unison.

The Path Forward: Building Upon Success

As we embark on this new season, the anticipation is palpable—both for the NBA and local German competitions. The increased accessibility via various streaming services and traditional broadcasts ushers in a new era for basketball fans. With formidable players emerging in both leagues and the strategic partnerships being formed, the love for basketball in Germany shows no signs of dwindling. Now is the perfect time for fans to find their favorite viewing option and immerse themselves in the thrill of the game.

Basketball fans get ready for an exciting season ahead.

Conclusion

From following the NBA League Pass to enjoying free broadcasts, German basketball fans have a plethora of options to suit their viewing preferences. Moreover, as local teams make headlines and national stars continue to shine, the coming months promise exhilarating matchups filled with unforgettable moments in both men’s and women’s basketball. Join the journey as we cheer on our favorites and celebrate the sport we all love.