From the free Bryant Park watch party to cable and streaming services like YouTube TV and Hulu Live, here's how to watch Knicks Game 3 tonight.
Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani announced that Bryant Park will host an additional watch party for Game 3 of the NBA Finals on June 9, 2026, after security concerns at Madison Square Garden due to President Trump's attendance forced the city to find an alternative. The free event, with a capacity of 5,000 attendees, offers thousands of New Yorkers a communal viewing experience that has become a hallmark of this historic Knicks run.
"These watch parties have become a celebration of New York City itself," said Mayor Mamdani. "That's why we're adding Bryant Park as an additional watch party location, so even more fans can be part of this incredible Knicks Finals run."
Registration is required, and the event is weather-dependent. Similar watch parties are also running in Central Park and at Brooklyn Bowl. This option is available only for Game 3; for other games in the series, viewers will need to explore other methods. The city's pivot to public parks mirrors trends in large-scale digital event coordination, similar to how technology is transforming game-day experiences.
If you prefer watching from home, the Knicks game will air on MSG Network for local viewers. For the NBA Finals, games are also carried nationally on ABC, ESPN, or TNT — Game 3 specifically airs on ABC. Cable and satellite subscribers can tune in via their provider's app or channel guide. MSG Network is included in most basic packages in the New York area, but always verify your lineup, as channel numbers vary by provider.
For cord-cutters, many cable subscriptions now include streaming access through provider apps like Spectrum TV or Xfinity Stream. This ensures you can watch even if you're away from your living room. The intersection of AI-driven scheduling and real-time broadcast management makes these apps increasingly reliable during live events.
Streaming services have become the primary way many fans watch sports. For Knicks games, services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and FuboTV offer MSG Network and ABC — but availability varies by region. YouTube TV includes MSG Network in the New York market and costs $72.99/month. Hulu + Live TV also carries MSG but at $76.99/month. For budget-conscious fans, Sling TV or DirecTV Stream may be cheaper, but verify they include MSG Network in your area.
Blackout restrictions can apply, particularly for local games on streaming platforms. Always check the service's coverage map and sign up for a free trial if available. The best practice is to confirm channel availability before game time. For a smoother experience, use a wired ethernet connection or a strong Wi-Fi signal to avoid buffering.