Anticipation surged in New York on Saturday, May 10, 2025, as the New York Knicks prepared to host the Boston Celtics in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals at Madison Square Garden. With the Knicks leading the series 2-0 after stunning comeback victories, fans eagerly sought ways to catch the 3:30 p.m. ET tip-off. The game, a pivotal moment in the 2025 NBA Playoffs, promised high-stakes action as the defending champion Celtics fought to avoid a 0-3 deficit. Broadcasting and streaming options became a focal point for viewers across the United States and beyond.
The matchup, airing live on ABC, offered multiple avenues for fans to watch, from traditional cable to modern streaming platforms. With celebrities like LL Cool J and Jack Harlow expected courtside, the game’s allure extended beyond the court. Here’s how fans could tune in:
- Television: ABC provided national coverage, accessible via cable and satellite providers.
- Streaming services: Platforms like DirecTV, Sling TV, and Hulu + Live TV offered live streams.
- Free trials: Several services provided trial periods, ideal for playoff viewers.
As Madison Square Garden buzzed with excitement, fans scrambled to secure their viewing plans for this critical playoff showdown.
ABC broadcasts Game 3 nationwide
ABC secured the rights to air Game 3, making it accessible to millions of households with cable or satellite subscriptions. Major providers like Comcast Xfinity, DIRECTV, Dish, Verizon Fios, and Spectrum carried ABC, ensuring wide availability. Fans could check local listings to confirm channel numbers, as these vary by region. For those in New York, ABC’s broadcast was a go-to option, capturing the electric atmosphere of Madison Square Garden.
The network’s coverage included pre-game analysis, with commentators breaking down the Knicks’ comeback victories and the Celtics’ three-point struggles. Post-game shows were also planned, offering highlights and player interviews. Viewers without cable had to explore streaming alternatives to join the action.
DirecTV’s MySports package delivers
DirecTV emerged as a top choice for streaming Game 3, particularly through its MySports package, priced at $69.99 per month. This plan included ABC, TNT, ESPN, and over 20 sports channels, covering the entire NBA Playoffs. A five-day free trial allowed new subscribers to watch the game without immediate cost, making it an attractive option for playoff fans.
The service supported streaming on smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and web browsers, offering flexibility for viewers at home or on the go. In select regions, DirecTV’s Entertainment package, at $85 per month, provided broader ABC access if MySports lacked local coverage. Fans appreciated DirecTV’s reliability, especially for high-definition broadcasts of the Knicks’ home game.
Here’s why DirecTV stood out:
- Channel lineup: Included ABC, TNT, and ESPN for comprehensive playoff coverage.
- Free trial: Five days of access without upfront payment.
- Device compatibility: Streamed on multiple platforms, from Roku to mobile devices.
- Sports focus: Over 20 sports channels, ideal for NBA enthusiasts.
Sling TV offers budget-friendly streaming
Sling TV’s Orange plan, starting at $23 for the first month and $45.99 thereafter, provided an affordable way to stream Game 3. The plan included ESPN3, which simulcasted ABC’s NBA broadcasts, ensuring fans could watch the Knicks-Celtics clash. With nearly 35 channels, including ESPN, TBS, and TNT, Sling covered most playoff games, making it a cost-effective choice.
Sling’s compatibility with smart TVs, smartphones, and web browsers allowed viewers to watch from anywhere. Regional restrictions applied, so fans were advised to verify ABC availability in their area. The service’s promotional discount for new subscribers added appeal for those looking to stream the playoffs without breaking the bank.
Hulu + Live TV bundles entertainment
Hulu + Live TV, priced at $82.99 per month, offered a premium streaming option for Game 3. The service carried ABC, ESPN, and TNT, providing access to the Knicks-Celtics series and other playoff matchups. A three-day free trial let new users watch the game for free, while the package’s 90+ channels included entertainment options like Disney Channel and BET.
Subscribers also gained access to ESPN+, Disney+, and Hulu’s on-demand library, enhancing the value for families or multi-sport fans. The platform supported streaming on devices like Apple TV, Fire TV, and smartphones, catering to diverse viewing preferences. Hulu’s robust channel lineup made it a versatile choice for Game 3 viewers.
Fubo’s sports-centric streaming
Fubo, known for its sports focus, streamed Game 3 via ABC, with plans starting at $79.99 per month. A seven-day free trial allowed fans to watch the Knicks-Celtics game without immediate cost. Fubo’s channel lineup included ABC, ESPN, and FS1, but lacked TNT, limiting its coverage of some playoff games. The service supported streaming on smart TVs, mobile devices, and web browsers, with cloud DVR for recording the game.
Fans in regions with ABC availability found Fubo reliable, especially for its high-quality streams and sports extras like NFL Network. Those prioritizing TNT games, however, needed to pair Fubo with another service like Max.
Max provides TNT simulcasts
Max, starting at $9.99 per month, offered a budget option for streaming TNT-broadcast playoff games, but Game 3’s ABC airing was not included. The service’s B/R Sports add-on, free with standard and premium plans, covered TBS, TNT, and truTV, making it relevant for other series games. Fans already subscribed to Max could use it for Game 2’s TNT broadcast, but for Game 3, they needed ABC access via cable or another streamer.
Max’s affordability and compatibility with devices like Roku and smart TVs made it a secondary option for playoff viewers. Its lack of ABC limited its standalone utility for this specific game.
Free trials maximize access
Free trials were a game-changer for fans looking to watch Game 3 without committing to subscriptions. DirecTV’s five-day trial covered ABC and TNT, ideal for the Knicks-Celtics series. Fubo’s seven-day trial provided ABC access, while Hulu + Live TV’s three-day trial offered a broader channel package. Sling TV, while not free, discounted its first month, easing the cost for new users.
These trials required sign-up but allowed cancellation before billing, making them popular among playoff viewers. Fans were advised to check regional channel availability to ensure ABC was included in their trial package.
Here’s a breakdown of trial options:
- DirecTV: Five days, includes ABC, TNT, and ESPN.
- Fubo: Seven days, includes ABC and ESPN, excludes TNT.
- Hulu + Live TV: Three days, includes ABC, ESPN, and TNT.
- Sling TV: Discounted first month, includes ESPN3 for ABC simulcasts.
Regional considerations for viewers
ABC’s availability varied by market, impacting streaming access. DirecTV and Fubo users needed to confirm ABC was offered in their zip code, as some regions required upgraded plans for local channels. Sling TV’s ESPN3 simulcast of ABC games was subject to regional restrictions, prompting fans to verify coverage before subscribing. Hulu + Live TV’s widespread ABC access made it a safer bet for viewers in smaller markets.
Fans in New York and Boston faced fewer issues, as both cities were major ABC markets. Those in rural areas were encouraged to use provider websites to check channel lineups before committing to a service.
Audio options via SiriusXM
For fans unable to watch, SiriusXM offered live radio coverage of Game 3. The service broadcast every Knicks-Celtics game, with new subscribers eligible for a four-month free trial. SiriusXM’s NBA channel provided play-by-play commentary, available on car radios, mobile apps, and smart speakers. This option suited commuters or fans wanting to follow the game while multitasking.
International streaming with VPNs
International fans faced broadcast restrictions but could access U.S. streams using a VPN like NordVPN. By connecting to a U.S. server, viewers could sign up for DirecTV, Sling, or Hulu + Live TV to watch Game 3 on ABC. NordVPN, recommended for streaming sports, offered a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing risk-free use. Setup guides were available for configuring VPNs on smart TVs and mobile devices.
Mobile and app-based viewing
Most streaming services provided mobile apps, letting fans watch Game 3 on smartphones or tablets. DirecTV, Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Fubo apps were available on iOS and Android, supporting on-the-go viewing. The ESPN app, accessible with a cable or streaming login, also streamed ABC’s broadcast via ESPN3. These apps offered features like live stats and multi-angle replays, enhancing the playoff experience.
Fans at Madison Square Garden could use mobile apps to catch replays or follow other playoff games, with the arena’s Wi-Fi supporting streaming. Social media platforms like X buzzed with real-time updates, complementing mobile viewing.
Celebrity presence boosts appeal
Madison Square Garden’s courtside was expected to draw stars like Knicks fans LL Cool J, 50 Cent, and Fat Joe, alongside Celtics supporters Jack Harlow and Nelly. Their presence, often captured on ABC’s broadcast, added glamour to Game 3. Social media posts speculated on celebrity sightings, with fans eager to spot courtside regulars during commercial breaks. This star power heightened the game’s visibility, driving viewership.
Venue viewing options
For fans attending Game 3, Madison Square Garden offered in-arena screens and mobile app access to follow the action. Tickets, available through Ticket Network and VividSeats, ranged from $150 to over $1,000, reflecting the game’s high demand. Local bars and restaurants near the arena, like Stout NYC and The Pennsy Food Hall, planned watch parties with large screens airing ABC’s broadcast, creating a communal viewing experience.
Accessibility for all fans
The NBA and ABC prioritized accessibility, with closed captioning available on TV and streaming platforms. Audio descriptions for visually impaired fans were offered through select providers like DirecTV and Hulu + Live TV. SiriusXM’s radio broadcast provided another inclusive option, ensuring fans with different needs could follow the Knicks-Celtics clash. These features underscored the league’s commitment to a broad audience.
Game 4 and beyond
The series continues with Game 4 on Monday, May 12, at 7:30 p.m. ET, airing on ESPN. Fans planning to watch could use the same streaming services, with DirecTV and Hulu + Live TV carrying ESPN. Sling TV’s Orange plan also included ESPN, while Fubo offered it in most regions. Those using free trials for Game 3 were advised to check expiration dates to ensure coverage for future games.
