What time does the NBA Draft start today? TV channel, schedule, live stream for Tuesday's Round 1

June 23, 2026 - 08:55

The first round of the 2026 NBA Draft is set for Tuesday night, and basketball fans are ready to see which young stars will hear their names called. This year's draft class is considered deep, with several prospects expected to make an immediate impact at the next level.

The action kicks off at 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The draft will be broadcast live on ESPN and ABC, giving viewers two clear options for watching the picks unfold. For those who prefer to stream, the event will also be available on the ESPN app and through ABC's streaming platform. You will need a cable or streaming subscription that includes these channels to access the live feed.

The first round is scheduled to run for roughly three hours, with teams having five minutes between each pick. This year, the lottery order was set last month, and the team holding the top selection is expected to take a versatile forward who has drawn comparisons to a current All-Star. Several teams near the top of the order are reportedly open to trading their picks, which could shake up the board early on.

Fans should expect plenty of analysis and interviews with the top prospects throughout the broadcast. The second round will take place the following day, but all eyes are on Tuesday night for the main event. Make sure to tune in early to catch the pre-draft coverage and the first pick of the night.