Bucks playoff game vs. Pacers is blacked out tonight in Milwaukee on NBA TV. Here's how you can watch.
The Milwaukee Bucks look to go up 2-0 in their best-of-seven first-round NBA playoff series against the Indiana Pacers tonight.
But will you see it?
You may turn the game on and see it blacked out, likely leading to some frustrated viewers in Milwaukee. That's because Game 2 is broadcast nationally on NBA TV and there are specific local restrictions on this channel. Fortunately, the game is also broadcast locally on Bally Sports Wisconsin. However, if you don't have cable or the specific Bally Sports app you wouldn't get it, either.
Here's what to know about why the playoff game may be blacked out in your area and more info about how to watch the Bucks-Pacers game.
What time is the Bucks game on tonight?
Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m. Tuesday.
What channel is the Bucks game on TV tonight?
NBA TV and Bally Sports Wisconsin.
Bucks game is blacked out on NBA TV in Milwaukee
Be prepared if you have NBA TV and are expecting to watch the Bucks playoff game tonight.
You may get a black screen.
That's because local and national content providers have exclusive rights to televise live games and content, according to the NBA.
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Why are there blackout restrictions for tonight's Bucks playoff game?
Blackout restrictions apply to live game games on NBA TV for your local NBA team. That means Bucks games on NBA TV aren't available live in Milwaukee.
Blacked-out games will be available for viewing after the game has ended. You can find them in the NBA League Pass Archives.
Why can't I watch the Bucks game on NBA TV?
Blackouts are specific to your location. The location is determined by the IP address or location services. Search your Zip Code under "What can I watch?" A subscription to NBA League Pass gives you live and on-demand games, but blackout restrictions still apply.
How to watch the Bucks game on streaming
Even if you have a streaming service, blackout restrictions will likely still apply.
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Bucks playoff game on Bally Sports Wisconsin: How to watch Game 2
The game is also airing on Bally Sports Wisconsin. Check your cable provider for the channel.
How can I watch the Bucks game if I don't have cable? Does Bally Sports live stream on Sling, YouTube TV or Hulu?
You need the Bally Sports streaming app if you don't have Bally through cable. Bally does not stream on streaming services like Sling, YouTube TV or Hulu.
Does Bally Sports offer a free trial?
Yes. Bally Sports offers a free, seven-day trial for its streaming app.
How can I listen to Bucks playoff game on radio?
The broadcast will air on a statewide network with WTMJ-AM (620) serving as the flagship home of the Bucks in Milwaukee. Here's a list of all the radio stations.
Bucks vs Pacers playoff schedule
Game 1: Bucks 109, Pacers 94 (Bucks lead series, 1-0)
Game 2: Pacers vs. Bucks – 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at Fiserv Forum (NBA TV, Bally Sports Wisconsin)
Game 3: Bucks vs. Pacers – 4:30 p.m. Friday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse (ESPN, Bally Sports Wisconsin Extra)
Game 4: Bucks vs. Pacers – 6 p.m. Sunday, April 28, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse (TNT, Bally Sports Wisconsin)
Game 5 (if necessary): Pacers vs. Bucks – Tuesday, April 30, at Fiserv Forum
Game 6 (if necessary): Bucks vs. Pacers – Thursday, May 2, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse
Game 7 (if necessary): Pacers vs. Bucks – Saturday, May 4, at Fiserv Forum (TNT)
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Why is Bucks game blacked out in Milwaukee on NBA TV? How to watch