Watching every New Orleans Pelicans game requires knowing the correct channels and streaming platforms based on your location. Local fans in the Gulf South region use different options than out-of-market supporters, while national games air across major networks.
Local broadcasts for regional games air primarily on the Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network (GCSEN) and local broadcast affiliates like WVUE Fox 8. Fans preferring digital access can subscribe directly to Pelicans+, the team-owned direct-to-consumer streaming service that covers non-national regional games. Out-of-market viewers rely on NBA League Pass, which carries all non-nationally televised matchups outside the local broadcast footprint.
Local Cable and Over-the-Air Channels
For viewers living within Louisiana, Mississippi, and parts of Alabama, regional television coverage centers around the Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network. This network serves as the primary home for regular-season regional broadcasts.
- Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network (GCSEN): Available on traditional cable providers, DirecTV, and select streaming packages, GCSEN broadcasts the bulk of regional games.
- WVUE Fox 8: Select regional games receive over-the-air or local simulcasts on Fox affiliate WVUE in the New Orleans market.
- Radio Broadcasts: Live audio coverage streams locally on WWL Radio and its regional affiliate network, or digitally via the Audacy app.
Streaming Options for Local Fans
Cord-cutters living inside the team's home broadcast region can bypass traditional cable contracts using dedicated digital platforms. To see the complete picture, check out the excellent analysis by ESPN.
- Pelicans+: This direct-to-consumer app streams live regional games, pregame shows, and postgame coverage. The service is accessible via web browsers, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and Roku devices.
- Live TV Streaming Services: Providers such as DirecTV Stream and Fubo include GCSEN in select channel packages, making them practical alternatives for fans who want both regional sports and local broadcast channels.
You can check regional availability and subscription tiers directly on the Pelicans+ Official Site.
Watching Out-of-Market Games
Fans residing outside the Gulf South broadcast territory face local blackout restrictions on regional feeds, meaning they need alternative pathways to catch the action.
- NBA League Pass: This subscription grants access to live and archived out-of-market games across multiple devices. It is available as a standalone app or as an add-on channel through services like Amazon Prime Video.
- Team Pass: A lower-cost alternative within League Pass for fans who only want to follow the Pelicans rather than every team across the league.
To explore out-of-market packages and current pricing, visit NBA League Pass.
National TV Broadcasts
When the Pelicans play on national television, regional channel guides no longer apply. These marquee matchups broadcast across major networks and digital platforms, meaning they are subject to national exclusivity rules:
- ESPN and ABC: Carry high-profile matchups and select weekend games.
- TNT: Broadcasts prime-time games throughout the regular season.
- NBA TV: Airs selected national and regional games throughout the week.
- Streaming Exclusives: Platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Peacock host specific packages of games that stream exclusively online.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming League Pass works locally: Buying NBA League Pass while living in New Orleans results in local games being blacked out. Local fans must use GCSEN or Pelicans+ instead.
- Forgetting national broadcast overrides: National games on ESPN, ABC, or TNT will not appear on the local regional network feed. Always check the daily schedule to see which network holds exclusive rights for that night.
- Overpaying for cable packages: If you only watch the Pelicans and local broadcast channels, live TV streaming bundles might include hundreds of unwanted channels. Evaluate whether a standalone Pelicans+ subscription paired with an antenna meets your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I watch Pelicans games for free over the air?
Only select games simulcast on local broadcast affiliates like WVUE Fox 8 are available for free with a digital TV antenna. The vast majority of regional games require a cable subscription, live TV streaming plan, or a Pelicans+ subscription.
Does Pelicans+ include national games?
No. Pelicans+ only covers regional games broadcast locally. Nationally televised games on networks like ESPN, ABC, or streaming platforms require access to those specific channels.
How can I listen to games if I can't watch on a screen?
Local radio broadcasts air on WWL Radio and its affiliate network. Digital listeners can stream the audio feed using the Audacy mobile application.
