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How to Watch the 2022 NBA Finals – Celtics vs Warriors Without Cable

The 2022 NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors begins June 2nd and basketball fans are wondering how they can watch all the action live without a cable subscription.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the various options – both paid and free – for live streaming the NBA Finals without cable so you don‘t miss a second of the hardwood highlights.

Setting the Stage – Breaking Down the Finals Matchup

For the first time since 2010, the NBA Finals will feature two of the most storied franchises in league history – the Celtics and the Warriors.

Boston is making their first finals appearance since 2010 led by young stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Golden State is returning for the 6th time in 8 years, seeking their 4th title during the Steph Curry era.

Based on the teams‘ exciting playoff runs filled with buzzer-beaters and comeback wins, we can expect a thrilling, competitive Finals matchup for the ages.

According to ESPN, viewership of the 2022 NBA playoffs is up 40% over last year, showing that fans are eager to tune into the Finals action.

Now let‘s explore the various ways to live stream the NBA Finals without needing a cable TV subscription.

2022 NBA Finals Schedule

Here is the full schedule for the 2022 NBA Finals, which will air on ABC:

  • Game 1: June 2, 9 PM ET
  • Game 2: June 5, 8 PM ET
  • Game 3: June 8, 9 PM ET
  • Game 4: June 10, 9 PM ET
  • Game 5 (if needed): June 13, 9 PM ET
  • Game 6 (if needed): June 16, 9 PM ET
  • Game 7 (if needed): June 19, 8 PM ET

Watch the NBA Finals Live with an OTA Antenna

Since the entire NBA Finals will air live on ABC, one of the easiest ways to stream it is by using an over-the-air (OTA) TV antenna.

OTA antennas can pull in free local broadcasts, like ABC, with no cable required. Here are the pros and cons:

Pros:

  • Completely free way to watch NBA Finals once antenna purchased
  • Provides good HD picture quality
  • No monthly costs or contracts

Cons:

  • Local channel availability varies by location
  • Indoor antennas have limited range, usually 30-40 miles
  • Placement and setup can require trial and error

Based on your location, you can determine which local ABC station is available using the FCC‘s DTV Reception Maps. Then choose the right type of antenna – indoor or outdoor – for your needs.

We recommend the Mohu Leaf Glide ($24.99 on Amazon) if placing your antenna near a window, or the Antennas Direct ClearStream 2MAX ($59.99) for greater range up to 70 miles.

Be sure to scan for channels once your antenna is connected to your TV and positioned correctly. You may need to adjust the antenna for optimal reception, especially if outdoors.

How to Stream the NBA Finals Live with Streaming Services

Live TV streaming services that include ABC in their channel packages are another excellent option for watching the finals online. Most services offer free trials so you can stream some games for free:

Service Free Trial Starting Price/Month
FuboTV 7 days $69.99
Hulu + Live TV 7 days $69.99
YouTube TV 7 days $64.99
Sling TV (Orange/Blue) 50% off 1st month $35

These services provide live ABC streams along with 30+ sports, news and entertainment channels for a monthly fee. They also allow simultaneous streaming on multiple devices.

I recommend YouTube TV for NBA fans – they offer the full ABC coverage, unlimited DVR, and streams in 1080p for a smooth viewing experience. Sign up using this link to get your free trial.

Be sure to cancel before the trial ends if you don‘t want to be charged. Streaming service trials require entering credit card information.

Other Ways to Stream ABC for the NBA Finals

Don‘t want to pay for a streaming service? Here are some alternative options for watching ABC‘s live Finals coverage:

  • ABC App/Website – Stream ABC live with your TV provider login. Participating providers include Hulu Live, YouTube TV, Sling, DirecTV, Optimum and many more. Just login with your credentials.
  • Locast – This non-profit streaming service offers free access to local ABC stations in select markets like Boston, San Francisco, New York, Chicago and more.
  • Crackle – An ad-supported streaming site with an NBA Finals live stream. Requires creating a free account.
  • Reddit NBA Streams – Redditors post free links to live streams on game days. Quality varies.

If you‘re outside the ABC broadcast area, use a VPN like ExpressVPN or NordVPN to access region-locked streams.

Live Odds for Betting on the NBA Finals Online

In addition to watching the games, many fans enjoy betting on the NBA Finals action. Here are live odds from top online sportsbooks:

FanDuel
Warriors -150
Celtics +130

DraftKings
Warriors -155
Celtics +135

Caesars Sportsbook
Warriors -165
Celtics +145

New users at Caesars can get up to $1250 back if their first bet loses when signing up here with promo code GAMEFULL.

Be sure to check each sportsbook for the latest odds, props, promotions and live betting options.

FAQs – Streaming the Finals Without Cable

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about watching the 2022 NBA Finals without cable:

What channel is the NBA Finals on?
All games will air live on ABC.

What‘s the cheapest way to stream the Finals online?
Using an OTA antenna or free streaming sites like Locast are the most affordable options.

Can I stream ABC with a TV antenna?
Yes, an OTA antenna can pull in your local ABC station for free in full HD.

What happens when my streaming service trial ends?
Streaming service trials require entering your credit card info. You will be charged monthly unless you cancel before the trial period ends.

Can I use a VPN if I‘m traveling or overseas?
Yes, a VPN like ExpressVPN allows you to change your virtual location to access region-locked ABC live streams.

I hope this guide has provided you with all the information needed to stream the exciting 2022 NBA Finals live without cable. Enjoy the action!

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