The Philadelphia 76ers’ upcoming game against the New York Knicks will not air on NBC Sports Philadelphia or any traditional television channel. Instead, fans must stream the game exclusively on Amazon Prime Video, part of a landmark 11-year NBA deal valued at nearly $20 billion.
This exclusive streaming arrangement means local broadcasters such as Alaa Abdelnaby and Kate Scott will not call the game live on TV. Abdelnaby had a recent exchange with referees related to a no-call, but fans will have to wait until after the game to hear his commentary. Kate Scott will discuss the team on the Inquirer Live show Friday morning.
The availability of the game only on Prime Video differs from Amazon’s NFL Thursday Night Football, which is shown on local TV markets. Sixers viewers without Amazon Prime can subscribe separately for $8.99 a month. Those with Amazon Prime shipping benefits already have access to Prime Video at no extra cost.
Amazon’s broadcast team includes veteran announcers Ian Eagle and Stan Van Gundy, with Cassidy Hubbarth reporting courtside from Madison Square Garden. Pre- and postgame shows will feature analysis from former NBA stars Blake Griffin, Steve Nash, and Udonis Haslem. The game marks the first of a doubleheader on Prime Video, followed by a matchup between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Minnesota Timberwolves.
Joel Embiid’s participation remains uncertain as he is listed questionable due to an illness. Embiid has contributed significant performances recently, including a season-high 39 points in a win over the Indiana Pacers. Fans will have to stay tuned for updates on his status.
Looking ahead, Sixers fans should note additional streaming dates:
1. Friday, Dec. 26: Sixers vs. Chicago Bulls on Prime Video
2. Jan. 5: Sixers vs. Denver Nuggets on Peacock
Meanwhile, NBC Sports Philadelphia will still air several other Sixers home games through the month, such as matchups against the Dallas Mavericks and Brooklyn Nets. This hybrid broadcast model reflects the NBA’s evolving media landscape, balancing traditional TV and new digital platforms.
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