The NBA All Star Game is a midseason showcase that brings the league’s brightest stars together in one city. Fans planning to watch need clear information about game time and the channel that carries the broadcast in their region.
Below is a quick reference that combines timing, television coverage, and streaming options for the upcoming All Star Game.
| Season | Game Date | Tipoff Time | U.S. TV Channel | Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023–24 | February 18, 2024 | 8:00 PM ET | TNT | Max, NBA App, YouTube TV |
| 2024–25 | February 16, 2025 | 8:00 PM ET | TNT | Max, NBA App, Hulu + Live TV |
Tipoff Time Across Key U.S. Markets
For most seasons, the All Star Game primetime slot is set at 8:00 PM Eastern Time to maximize viewership. This scheduling helps national audiences tune in after evening work hours and keeps east coast and west coast viewers within a reasonable late-night window.
Because the league prioritizes a consistent start window, you can generally expect the game to begin near 8:00 PM ET in February, with local channels shifting the time to match their time zone. Check your local listings a few days before tipoff to confirm any adjustments due to pregame coverage or special ceremonies.
When you add travel, parties, or halftime events into the equation, the broadcast often runs longer than two hours. Planning for a three to three and a half hour block around the 8:00 ET start gives you a comfortable window for pregame analysis, the game itself, and postgame highlights.
How to Watch on Cable and Streaming Services
In the United States, Turner networks including TNT have held the broadcast rights for the NBA All Star Game for several seasons. This partnership delivers high production value, expert commentary, and access to classic moments replayed during halftime and postgame shows.
Streaming options have expanded alongside traditional cable, with services such as Max, the NBA App, and authenticated platforms like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV carrying the same feed. Subscribers can watch on smart TVs, phones, tablets, and connected devices without needing a separate cable subscription.
If you prefer cord-cutting solutions, many virtual providers offer add-on sports packages that include Turner channels, ensuring you can follow the All Star Game even without a traditional cable box.
International Broadcast and Time Zone Considerations
Outside the United States, broadcasters vary by country, and start times are often converted to local time. For fans in Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia, the game may air in the late morning or early afternoon on days that include both Saturday and Sunday events.
Always verify the channel through your local provider or the league’s official international partners page, because rights agreements can shift from year to year. Regional sports networks and national sports channels sometimes share rights, so one city might see the game on one network while another nearby region uses a different broadcaster.
Using a VPN or checking official league apps can help international viewers confirm the exact channel and stream that comply with local licensing rules.
Pre-Game and Halftime Coverage
Networks typically begin coverage with studio programming and player interviews hours before tipoff, setting the narrative around fan voting, injury updates, and storylines. This pregame window helps casual fans catch up on storylines they may have missed during the regular season.
Halftime coverage features celebrity guests, skill challenge replays, and fan engagement moments that extend the viewing experience. Whether you watch on cable or stream, planning for a longer broadcast ensures you do not miss key moments outside of the four quarters.
Plan Your Viewing Around the All Star Game Schedule
- Confirm the date and 8:00 ET tipoff time for the current season.
- Check whether your local carrier carries TNT or the regional sports partner.
- Choose a streaming method such as Max or an authenticated TV app in advance.
- Set reminders a day before and an hour before tipoff to avoid missing pregame coverage.
- Account for time zone shifts if you are traveling or watching from outside the Eastern Time zone.
FAQ
Reader questions
What channel is the NBA All Star Game on in the United States in 2025?
The game airs on TNT in the United States, with streaming available on Max, the NBA App, and authenticated platforms such as Hulu + Live TV.
What time does the NBA All Star Game start in Eastern Time?
Tipoff is scheduled for 8:00 PM Eastern Time, though pregame coverage may begin several hours earlier.
Can I watch the All Star Game on my phone without cable?
Yes, through the NBA App and supported streaming services with an active subscription to the network or streaming bundle that includes TNT.
Does the All Star Game time change for West Coast viewers?
Yes, for Pacific Time the game typically starts at 5:00 PM, allowing coast-to-coast viewing in a reasonable evening or late-afternoon window.