How to Watch March Madness on a Budget
Understanding the Coverage:
March Madness games are broadcast across four channels: CBS, TBS, TNT, and TruTV. Traditional live TV streaming services like YouTube TV or Hulu with Live TV offer all these channels but at a steep monthly cost of around $70-$80, which is prohibitively expensive for many.
Affordable Streaming Options:
Instead of paying for a high-priced live TV package, consider combining two streaming services: Paramount Plus and Max. Paramount Plus with Showtime costs $13 a month and includes CBS, crucial for the Final Four and championship games. Max’s Basic plan at $10 a month covers TBS, TNT, and TruTV, essential for earlier rounds.
Navigating Price Changes:
Max will begin requiring its $17-a-month Standard plan for live sports starting March 30. However, all TBS and TNT games conclude with the Elite Eight on March 29. Therefore, you can opt for Max’s Basic plan until March 29, then switch to Paramount Plus for the remaining games on CBS.
Scheduling Your Viewing:
March Madness starts with the First Four on March 18-19, so ensure you’re subscribed by then. Use Paramount Plus throughout the tournament for CBS games and Max for the other channels until the Elite Eight. After March 29, focus solely on Paramount Plus for the Final Four and championship.
Device Compatibility:
Both Paramount Plus and Max support a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, Roku, and gaming consoles, ensuring you can watch games wherever you prefer.
Conclusion:
By strategically using Paramount Plus and Max, you can enjoy March Madness at a fraction of the cost of traditional live TV. Subscribe to both services initially, then adjust your Max subscription after March 29 to avoid higher costs, saving money while still catching all the action.
