NBC Sports coverage of the NBA returns tonight with the first Peacock-exclusive broadcast when the Chicago Bulls visit the Cleveland Cavaliers. In a move that pairs the future with nostalgia, the streaming-first broadcast strategy will mix legacy network presentation with modern, interactive streaming features.

Quick facts — Bulls at Cavaliers (tonight)

When: Tuesday, Oct. 7 — 7:00 p.m. ET

Where: Rocket Arena, Cleveland, Ohio

Where to Watch: Peacock

What to Know About the NBA on Peacock

The NBA’s return to NBC’s banner revives one of basketball TV’s most-recognized homes while updating the experience for streaming-first audiences. NBC Sports brings network production values and branding fans remember, with the addition of Peacock’s interactive streaming platform.

Peacock is launching a feature set designed for live sports viewers, not just a plain stream. Expect interactive tools like:

Live in Browse — instant game access with real-time insights.

Catch Up with Key Plays and playlists of “Can’t Miss Highlights” for fans joining late.

Peacock ScoreCard and Performance View overlays for stats/engagement, and later-season “Courtside Live” immersive elements and multiview options. These aim to make streaming feel more social and analytic than traditional linear TV.

How to Watch Bulls vs. Cavs on Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV & More (step-by-step)

Open Peacock (app or peacocktv.com) and sign in (Tonight’s game begins at 7:00 p.m. ET)

If you don’t have a Peacock account, sign up for a paid Peacock plan that includes live sports — or log in with your TV provider credentials where supported to access NBC/Peacock game streams.

For mobile/TV devices: use the Peacock app on smart TVs, streaming sticks, or mobile devices.

Peacock’s NBA Coverage for the 2025-26 Season

Peacock and NBC will split a slate of games across the season (Peacock + NBC will cover 100 regular-season games), with a subset of games streaming exclusively on Peacock. If you want every NBC-produced NBA moment, Peacock access will be increasingly important.

Highlights to watch for this season include NBC’s curated event nights (Sunday Night Basketball launching in early 2026 and exclusive Monday night windows) and Peacock-only exclusives featuring marquee matchups, and special broadcasts across the platform.

Tonight’s Bulls–Cavs preseason game is more than warmups, it’s the first live, in-market glimpse at how the NBA will look on Peacock and NBC together. The return of the iconic Roundball Rock with a mix of classic broadcast presentation and new interactive tools designed for streaming.