NBA announces earlier start times for 2023 Finals games
Today, the NBA and ESPN announced that the 2023 NBA Finals will feature earlier start times on ABC.
NBA Finals games on weekdays will begin at 8:30 p.m. ET, which is 30 minutes earlier than in prior years, while games airing on Sundays will begin at 8:00 p.m. ET.
“Our fans told us that earlier starts for Finals games are simply better for them,” said Gregg Winik, the NBA's President, Content and Executive Producer. “We’re excited to work with ABC to present the 2023 NBA Finals at a more optimal viewing time.”
Here's a look at the 2023 NBA Finals schedule on ABC:
|
Game 1 |
Thursday, June 1 |
8:30 p.m. ET |
|
Game 2 |
Sunday, June 4 |
8:00 p.m. ET |
|
Game 3 |
Wednesday, June 7 |
8:30 p.m. ET |
|
Game 4 |
Friday, June 9 |
8:30 p.m. ET |
|
Game 5* |
Monday, June 12 |
8:30 p.m. ET |
|
Game 6* |
Thursday, June 15 |
8:30 p.m. ET |
|
Game 7* |
Sunday, June 18 |
8:00 p.m. ET |
*If necessary
“We're proud to work closely with our NBA partners to deliver the NBA Finals on ABC for the 21st consecutive season,” said Julie Sobieski, ESPN Senior Vice President, Programming and Acquisitions. “Our best-in-class coverage team is ready to showcase all of the action and excitement, now at earlier start times for fans.”