For sports enthusiasts in the Pacific Northwest, what was formerly known as NBC Sports Northwest (now primarily Root Sports Northwest) is the go-to channel for local team coverage. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Mariners, Trail Blazers, or Kraken, knowing how to access this regional sports network (RSN) is crucial. This guide breaks down the best ways to stream Root Sports Northwest, including free trial options, budget-friendly choices, and what to expect from its programming.
How to Stream Root Sports Northwest: Service Options
Accessing Root Sports Northwest typically requires a live TV streaming service that carries the channel in your local market. Note that not all services carry this RSN. Here are the primary options:
- Fubo: Fubo is a strong choice for sports fans, often including Root Sports Northwest in its channel lineup. It generally comes with a 7-day free trial for new subscribers, allowing you to test its extensive lineup.
- DirecTV Stream: Known for its broad channel selection, DirecTV Stream is one of the most reliable options for carrying regional sports networks like Root Sports Northwest. New subscribers can often take advantage of a 5-day free trial to experience its offerings.
- Hulu + Live TV: While not always guaranteed for every RSN, Hulu + Live TV may carry Root Sports Northwest in some areas. It combines Hulu’s extensive on-demand library with live TV channels and usually offers a 7-day free trial for its live TV component.
- Other Regional Providers: In some cases, local cable or satellite providers might be the only option for consistent access to Root Sports Northwest, especially if you live in a specific part of the region.
Before subscribing, always verify that the service carries Root Sports Northwest in your specific ZIP code, as regional availability can vary significantly and it’s less widely distributed than some other RSNs.
What is the Cheapest Way to Watch Root Sports Northwest?
Finding the ‘cheapest’ way to watch Root Sports Northwest can be challenging, as it’s often carried by higher-tier live TV streaming packages. Unlike some other RSNs, it’s less commonly found on budget-friendly services like Sling TV.
Generally, Fubo or DirecTV Stream might be your most viable options, though they come at a higher price point. The best value will depend on whether you need other channels included in their packages. Always compare the full channel lineup and features against their price points to find the best value for your specific viewing needs.
How to Watch Root Sports Northwest for Free?
The most reliable way to watch Root Sports Northwest for free is by taking advantage of the free trials offered by various live TV streaming services that carry the channel. As mentioned above, services like Fubo, DirecTV Stream, and potentially Hulu + Live TV typically offer introductory free trial periods.
These trials allow you to access the full live channel lineup, including Root Sports Northwest, without any upfront cost. Remember to cancel your subscription before the trial period ends to avoid being charged. Beyond these trials, legitimate long-term free access to Root Sports Northwest is generally not available, as it is a premium regional sports network.
Other Sports Networks Available in the Pacific Northwest
Beyond Root Sports Northwest, the region offers access to a variety of other major sports networks through the same streaming services. This ensures comprehensive coverage for all your favorite leagues and teams:
- ESPN: A cornerstone of national sports programming, ESPN is available on virtually all live TV streaming services (Fubo, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, DirecTV Stream) and frequently offers a free trial through these platforms.
- FS1 (Fox Sports 1): Provides national sports coverage and is widely available on the same streaming services, often with free trial options.
- TNT: Essential for NBA and NHL playoff coverage, TNT is included in most live TV streaming packages that offer free trials.
- MLB Network: For dedicated baseball fans, MLB Network is available as an add-on or in higher-tier packages on services like Fubo and DirecTV Stream, often accessible during their free trials.
- NBA TV: The official network of the NBA, available on many live TV streaming platforms, perfect for basketball enthusiasts.
- NHL Network: For hockey fans, NHL Network provides 24/7 coverage and is available on select streaming services.
- NFL Network: Offers year-round NFL content, including live games and analysis, available on most major live TV streaming services.
- Pac-12 Network: For college sports fans, particularly Pac-12 conference events, this network is available on select streaming services like Fubo and Sling TV.
These networks, combined with Root Sports Northwest, provide a robust sports viewing experience for fans across the region.
What Sports and Teams Are Featured on Root Sports Northwest?
Root Sports Northwest serves as the primary regional broadcast home for several major professional sports teams in the Pacific Northwest. The network provides extensive live game coverage, pre-game and post-game analysis, and exclusive team-focused programming.
Key teams and leagues you can expect to watch on Root Sports Northwest include:
- Seattle Mariners (MLB): Comprehensive coverage of regular-season games, offering crucial access for baseball fans in the region.
- Portland Trail Blazers (NBA): Live broadcasts of NBA regular-season games, providing essential viewing for basketball enthusiasts.
- Seattle Kraken (NHL): Full coverage of NHL regular-season matchups, ensuring hockey enthusiasts don’t miss a moment.
- Seattle Seahawks (NFL): While live game broadcasts are on national networks, Root Sports Northwest provides extensive pre-game, post-game, and analysis programming for the Seahawks.
- Other Local Sports: The network also features college sports and various local sports programming relevant to its broadcast footprint.
If you follow any of these major Pacific Northwest teams, Root Sports Northwest is an essential channel for staying connected to all the live action and in-depth commentary.