Hulu + Live TV Is 50% Off for the NBA Season: How It Compares With DIRECTV
Hulu + Live TV is running a deal for the start of the NBA season: $49.99 for your first month, half its regular $99.99 a month. The offer ends at 9 a.m. PT (noon ET) on Monday, October 26, 2026, and it's only for new and eligible returning subscribers.
Here's what the deal includes, which NBA games you'll get and how Hulu + Live TV compares with DIRECTV for basketball. For channel numbers and the full schedule, see our NBA on DIRECTV guide.
Hulu + Live TV NBA deal: the terms
- Price: $49.99 for one month, then $99.99 a month unless you cancel.
- Plan: Hulu (With Ads) + Live TV only. It includes Disney+ and ESPN content in their own apps.
- Deadline: 9 a.m. PT on October 26, 2026.
- Who's excluded: current Hulu, Disney+ or ESPN subscribers, and some third-party-billed subscribers.
Terms from Hulu's offer page as of October 21, 2026.
Which NBA games does Hulu + Live TV carry?
Hulu says its live plan includes ABC, ESPN and NBC, which carry most national NBA games this season. It doesn't include NBA TV. Games that stream only on Peacock or Prime Video need those subscriptions, and regional sports networks depend on your market.
Hulu + Live TV vs. DIRECTV for the NBA
| Hulu + Live TV | DIRECTV | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $49.99 first month, then $99.99/mo | Varies by package and address |
| ESPN / ESPN2 | Yes | Yes (206 / 209) |
| ABC and NBC | Yes, where local stations are available | Yes, local stations |
| NBA TV | No | Yes, channel 216 (CHOICE and higher, or MySports) |
| NBA League Pass | Not sold through Hulu | Available as an add-on |
| Local team games | RSNs in some markets | RSNs or local stations, depending on the team |
DIRECTV channel details are from our NBA on DIRECTV guide, updated October 16, 2026.
Which one should NBA fans pick?
The Hulu deal is a cheap way to try a month of live TV during the season's first weeks, and Disney+ is included. NBA TV is the biggest gap. If you want NBA TV, League Pass and your local team in one channel guide, DIRECTV covers more. To check what DIRECTV offers for your team at your address, call 1-855-690-9884. Already on Hulu? See switching from Hulu + Live TV to DIRECTV.
FAQ
How much is Hulu + Live TV for the NBA season?
$49.99 for the first month, then $99.99 a month, for new and eligible returning subscribers who sign up by 9 a.m. PT on October 26, 2026.
Does Hulu + Live TV have NBA TV?
No. Hulu + Live TV includes ABC, ESPN and NBC but not NBA TV. DIRECTV carries NBA TV on channel 216.
Can current Disney+ subscribers get the Hulu deal?
No. Current Hulu, Disney+ and ESPN subscribers aren't eligible.
Can I get NBA League Pass on DIRECTV?
Yes. DIRECTV sells NBA League Pass as an add-on for out-of-market games.
What channel is ESPN on DIRECTV?
ESPN is channel 206 and ESPN2 is 209.
Questions? Call 1-855-690-9884.
Details reviewed October 21, 2026. Prices, channel numbers, offers and streaming availability are set by each provider, vary by location and may change. All trademarks belong to their respective owners. American TV is an independent dealer and resource site.