State Champ Radio

by DJ Frosty

Current track

Title

Artist

Current show
blank

State Champ Radio Mix

1:00 pm 7:00 pm

Current show
blank

State Champ Radio Mix

1:00 pm 7:00 pm


sports

Page: 18

All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
The NBA playoffs are here, and while the Lakers and Nuggets dominate the Western Conference conversation, one of the most-anticipated Eastern Conference matchups pit the number-one seed Boston Celtics versus the eighth-seeded Miami Heat. The Heat made it into the playoffs after surviving the NBA Play-In Tournament, while the Celtics were one of the top teams in the league throughout the entire season.

Explore

Explore

See latest videos, charts and news

See latest videos, charts and news

Want to watch the Heat vs. Celtics on TV and online? Here’s what you need to know.

Trending on Billboard

Miami Heat vs. Boston Celtics Playoff Games: Date, Time

The Heat and Celtics kick off their Eastern Conference playoff series today, Sunday, April 21 at 1 p.m. ET / 10 a.m. PT from TD Garden in Boston.

Last-minute tickets to watch the Celtics vs. Heats in person are still available on sites like Stubhub, Vivid Seats and SeatGeek. All three sites guarantee that your tickets will be delivered digitally in time for the game or your money back. BONUS: use promo code BILLBOARD10 to save $10 off your purchase at SeatGeek.com.

How to Watch Heat vs. Celtics on TV

If you want to watch the Heat vs. Celtics on TV, today’s game is airing live on ABC. You can watch the Eastern Conference playoff game on TV through your local ABC affiliate.

How to Watch Heat vs. Celtics Online Free

Want to watch the Heat vs. Celtics playoff game online without cable? Get this five-day free trial to DirecTV Stream, which includes a live ABC feed as part of its channel offerings. DirecTV Stream is one of the best streaming services for live sports and one of the easiest ways to stream live TV and sports without cable.

DirecTV Stream lets you watch the Heat vs. Celtics on TV, on your phone, tablet or laptop. Cancel before your free trial is up to avoid being charged.

Another way to livestream the Heat vs. Celtics online free? Use Fubo TV. Fubo also includes ABC as part of its streaming service, and the site is offering a seven-day free trial that you can use to watch the Celtics-Heat game online for free. Fubo’s free trial includes free DVR so you can record the basketball game to watch a Heat-Celtics replay on-demand later.

You can also sign up for NBA League Pass to stream out-of-market NBA playoff games as well as have 24/7 access to highlights, replays, live stats and more.

Heat vs. Celtics Predictions, Odds

The Celtics are favored to win this first-round playoff series, having been one of the most dominant teams in the NBA this year. However, Miami defeated Boston in last year’s Eastern Conference finals, taking it 4-3 in the best-of-seven series. The Celtics will be hoping to avoid a repeat of last year’s performance, as it takes on a motivated Miami team.

Watch the Heat vs. Celtics playoff games online free through FuboTV or DirecTV Stream here.

All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
The 2024 NBA playoffs are here and one of the most anticipated matchups pit the Los Angeles Lakers against the Denver Nuggets. The Western Conference series has no shortage of star power, with Nikola Jokic and last season’s NBA champs Nuggets facing off against LeBron James and the always-powerful Lakers.

Explore

Explore

See latest videos, charts and news

See latest videos, charts and news

Want to watch the Lakers vs. Nuggets on TV and online? Here’s what you need to know.

Trending on Billboard

L.A. Lakers vs. Denver Nuggets Playoff Games: Date, Time

The Lakers and Nuggets open the best-of-7 series tonight, Saturday, April 20 at 8:30 p.m. ET / 5:30 p.m. PT from Ball Arena in Denver.

Last-minute tickets to watch the Lakers vs. Nuggets in person are still available on sites like Stubhub, Vivid Seats and SeatGeek. All three sites guarantee that your tickets will be delivered digitally in time for the game or your money back. BONUS: use promo code BILLBOARD10 to save $10 off your purchase at SeatGeek.com.

How to Watch Lakers vs. Nuggets on TV

If you want to watch the Lakers vs. Nuggets on TV, tonight’s game is airing live on ABC. You can watch the Western Conference playoff game on TV through your local ABC affiliate.

How to Watch Lakers vs. Nuggets Online Free

Want to watch the Lakers vs. Nuggets online without cable? Get this five-day free trial to DirecTV Stream, which includes a live ABC feed as part of its channel offerings. DirecTV Stream is one of the best streaming services for live sports and one of the easiest ways to stream live TV without cable.

Another way to livestream the Lakers vs. Nuggets online free is through Fubo, which offers a seven-day free trial for its streaming service. Fubo lets you watch the Lakers vs. Nuggets playoff game online on ABC from your phone, tablet, laptop or TV. Fubo also includes free DVR so you can record the game to watch an LA vs. Denver game replay on-demand.

You can also sign up for NBA League Pass to stream out-of-market NBA playoff games as well as have 24/7 access to highlights, replays, live stats and more.

Lakers vs. Nuggets Odds, Predictions, Favorites

The Nuggets are looking to become back-to-back NBA champs after taking home the title last year, and Denver is the odds-on favorite to win the series over the Lakers. Denver also swept L.A. in the Western Conference finals last year.

Still, this is a resilient L.A. team that hopes to continue the Lakers dynasty. Aside from last year’s lopsided loss, the Lakers have won seven of the eight playoff series between them and Denver. Los Angeles also leads the all-time series 138-91.

Livestream the Lakers vs. Nuggets online free on ABC through Fubo here.

All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
ESPN is just one option for watching baseball, basketball and more — sports fans can watch exclusive games live including for the NBA and NHL on TNT. Unless you have cable though, your viewing options are limited. Cord cutters don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on a cable package in order to get access to basketball games and other TNT content, there are affordable streaming options like live TV streamers that’ll give you instant access and for a fraction of the price.

Explore

Explore

See latest videos, charts and news

See latest videos, charts and news

With current free trials and promos going on, you can livestream the NBA playoffs for free or for less than $100 a month. You’ll also get access to hundreds of other live TV channels that’ll expand your program options, so you can watch sports, reality TV and the latest dramas live and in real time.

Trending on Billboard

And, if you’re interested in catching NBA playoff games, TNT will be airing select matchups that are also going to be simulcasted on TruTV.

Keep reading to learn more about the current offers available.

How to Watch TNT Online for Free

You can get access to TNT and TruTV through live TV streamers such as DirecTV Stream, Sling TV and Hulu + Live TV. All options are currently offering either a free trial or promos that’ll reduce the cost of the platform and give you access to the NBA playoffs.

Below are all the ways to watch TNT online, including ways to stream TNT online for free.

DirecTV Stream

DirecTV Stream is offering new users a five-day free trial when you sign up for one its four packages offered. All of the packages include TNT and TruTV so you can stream the channels online.

Plus, right now you can save $30 when you combine any streaming package with a “Sports Pack.” Currently, the Entertainment + Sports Pack is dropped down to $85 (reg. $95) for the first three months and comes with TNT and TruTV for simulcasted NBA playoff games. Once the three months are up you’ll be charged the subscription price based on what package you choose at checkout.

In addition to unlimited DVR storage, you’ll get access to local channels and the ability to stream on as many devices as you want.

Sling TV

You can take advantage of $10 off the first month of all of Sling TV‘s streaming packages, dropping the price down to $30 (reg. $40 a month). There are three package plans to choose from: Orange, Blue and Orange + Blue with every option including the TNT channel — only the Blue and Orange + Blue packages also include TruTV. After your first month is up you’ll be charged the regular subscription price based on the package you pick.

The Orange Package comes with 32 channels and can be streamed on just one device at a time. Included in the Blue Package is 40 channels including TNT and TruTV as well as FS1 and the NFL Network. Can’t choose? You can combine both packages and get all 68 channels and the ability to stream on up to three devices at once — and just for $45 for the first month (reg. $55).

Hulu + Live TV

For the most content offerings, you can sign up for Hulu + Live TV and get access to the Hulu library in addition to more then 95 live TV channels (including TNT and TruTV), and all for $77 a month.

And, for even more programming, Hulu + Live TV now comes bundled with Disney+ and ESPN+, which will give you everything within the Hulu library in addition to exclusive content on the two other streamers.

Is TNT Free On Amazon Prime?

The TNT channel is not available on Prime Video, but Amazon does offer access to some of the TNT’s most popular programs like The Closer, The Librarians, Perception, The Alienist and The Last Ship. Prime members can watch the TV shows for free and get instant access to the programs through the Prime Video library.

Don’t have a Prime membership? New users are eligible for a 30-day free trial that you can sign up for here.

Can You Watch TNT On Hulu?

With Hulu + Live TV, you get access to 95+ channels of live TV channels including TNT and TruTV, so you can watch select NBA playoff games live and right from your couch. It doesn’t include a free trial, but once you sign up, you’ll get instant access to the channels — no add-ons required.

2024 NBA Playoffs Schedule

See below for the upcoming games or click here to see the full schedule.

Saturday (April 20)

Cavaliers vs. Magic at 1 p.m. ET on ESPN

Timberwolves vs. Suns at 3:30 ET on ESPN

Knicks vs. TBD at 6 p.m. on ESPN

Nuggets vs. Lakers at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC

Sunday (April 21)

Celtics vs. TBD at 1 p.m. ET on ABC

Clippers vs. Mavericks at 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC

Bucks vs. Pacers at 7 p.m. ET on TNT

Thunder vs. West No. 8 at 9:30 p.m. ET on TNT

Monday (April 22)

Cavaliers vs. Magic at 7 p.m. ET on NBA TV

Knicks vs. TBD at 7:30 p.m. on TNT

Nuggets vs. Lakers at 10 p.m. on TNT

Tuesday (April 23)

Timberwolves vs. Suns at 7:30 p.m. ET on TNT

Bucks vs. Pacers at 8:30 p.m. ET on NBA TV

Clippers vs. Mavericks at 10 p.m. ET on TNT

Wednesday (April 24)

Celtics vs. TBD at 7 p.m. ET on TNT

Thunder vs. TBD at 9:30 p.m. ET on TNT

Thursday (April 25)

Magic vs. Cavaliers at 7 p.m. ET on NBA TV

TBD vs. Knicks at 7:30 p.m. ET on TNT

Lakers vs. Nuggets at 10 p.m. ET on TNT

Friday (April 26)

Pacers vs. Bucks at 5:30 p.m. ET on ESPN

Mavericks vs. Clippers at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN

Suns vs. Timberwolves at 10:30 p.m. ET on ESPN

All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
The 2024 NBA playoffs start this Saturday (April 20) and if you’ve recently cut the cable cord, you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on a new package in order to livestream the games at home. NBA League Pass is a one-stop hub to watch select playoff games live at home as well as on-demand matches and post-season coverage.

Explore

Explore

See latest videos, charts and news

See latest videos, charts and news

While there are a number affordable streaming options on the market, this one is designed specifically for basketball lovers to catch all of the action without paying for a cable package. Plus, right now the best NBA League Pass deals can score you a free trial to watch NBA playoff games for free.

Keep reading to learn more about the streaming platform and current deals, discounts and promos going on.

Trending on Billboard

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get NBA League Pass?

Amazon is offering Prime members an exclusive deal that can get you a seven-day free trial of NBA League Pass. All you have to do is log into your Prime account and add the channel through the Prime Channel storefront and you’ll immediately get a week-long free trial. Once the free trial is over, you’ll be charged $14.99/month. Or you can cancel at any time to avoid being charged.

Don’t have a Prime membership? Amazon is offering new users a 30-day free trial when you sign up, in addition to the seven-day free trial of NBA League Pass.

What Are the Best NBA League Pass Deals?

Besides Prime Video’s offer, there are a couple more deals going on that’ll get you access to the streaming platform for an affordable price. Keep reading to see the latest NBA League Pass deals below.

NBA League Pass Subscription

The basketball platform provides affordable subscription options that’ll get you instant access to watch playoff games without cable. There are two NBA League Pass subscriptions you can choose from: League Pass and League Pass Premium. League Pass is ad-supported and the cheapest option of the two at only $14.99/month. Subscribing will let you stream on a single device as well as watch every out-of-market game live, 24/7 access to NBA TV, condensed versions of games and customizable broadcasts, angles and stats.

With League Pass Premium, you’ll get everything in League Pass with no ads and the ability to stream on up to three devices at one for just $22.99/month.

Looking for additional savings? You can sign up for the Single Team plan for $13.99/month that’ll allow you to choose one team of your choice to follow. You’ll only receive access to content for that team eliminating having to do the digging yourself.

NBA League Pass Student Plan

College students can take advantage of 40% off the NBA League Pass Monthly subscription for 12 months. Once the year is up, they’ll have to reverify their student status in order to continue receiving the discount.

It’s only offered for the League Pass plan and cannot be redeemed for another plan or upgrade. You can verify your student status here using the SheerID through NBA.com.

Does NBA League Pass Have a Free Trial?

NBA League Pass doesn’t come with a free trial on its own, but you can take advantage of Amazon’s promo, which is offering seven days free when you add the premium channel onto your subscription. There is no promo code needed to score this free trial.

Is NBA TV the Same As NBA League Pass?

NBA League Pass is a dedicated 24/7 streaming service for basketball games and exclusive coverage — with an ad-free experience too. NBA TV, meantime, is a channel included in the streaming service that provides non-stop coverage live for you to stream on your tablet, TV or smartphone as well as access to features, interviews, archived shows, NBA events and press conferences.

While you’ll have access to a number of games through both subscription plans, nationally televised games and local team games televised in your area won’t be available to livestream.

2024 NBA Playoffs Schedule

Check out the upcoming games below or click here to see the full schedule.

Saturday (April 20)

Cavaliers vs. Magic at 1 p.m. ET on ESPN

Timberwolves vs. Suns at 3:30 ET on ESPN

Knicks vs. TBD at 6 p.m. on ESPN

Nuggets vs. Lakers at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC

Sunday (April 21)

Celtics vs. TBD at 1 p.m. ET on ABC

Clippers vs. Mavericks at 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC

Bucks vs. Pacers at 7 p.m. ET on TNT

Thunder vs. West No. 8 at 9:30 p.m. ET on TNT

Monday (April 22)

Cavaliers vs. Magic at 7 p.m. ET on NBA TV

Knicks vs. TBD at 7:30 p.m. on TNT

Nuggets vs. Lakers at 10 p.m. on TNT

Tuesday (April 23)

Timberwolves vs. Suns at 7:30 p.m. ET on TNT

Bucks vs. Pacers at 8:30 p.m. ET on NBA TV

Clippers vs. Mavericks at 10 p.m. ET on TNT

Wednesday (April 24)

Celtics vs. TBD at 7 p.m. ET on TNT

Thunder vs. TBD at 9:30 p.m. ET on TNT

Thursday (April 25)

Magic vs. Cavaliers at 7 p.m. ET on NBA TV

TBD vs. Knicks at 7:30 p.m. ET on TNT

Lakers vs. Nuggets at 10 p.m. ET on TNT

Friday (April 26)

Pacers vs. Bucks at 5:30 p.m. ET on ESPN

Mavericks vs. Clippers at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN

Suns vs. Timberwolves at 10:30 p.m. ET on ESPN

Chowon, a member of the K-pop girl group ICHILLIN’, was reportedly hospitalized after being hit by a foul ball at a professional baseball game that she and her band mates were participating in on Tuesday (April 16), according to local reports in Korea.

Explore

Explore

See latest videos, charts and news

See latest videos, charts and news

At a matchup between the Kiwoom Heroes and KT Wiz and Kiwoom held at the Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul, ICHILLIN’ opened the game with member Yeju throwing the first pitch and ICHILLIN’ leader E.Ji taking the ceremonial first bat ahead of a group performance later. While watching the game and waiting to perform, the group’s youngest member, 18-year-old Chowon, was struck by a foul ball during the third inning.

According to reports, the foul ball struck Chowon in the back of the head with the blow knocking the singer unconscious. She was taken in for medical assistance in the stadium and regained consciousness with the aid of on-the-scene physicians and officials. The star was transferred to a nearby hospital.

Trending on Billboard

The initial reports indicate Chowon was not seriously injured. However, the performance from ICHILLIN was canceled after the incident.

A YouTube account has uploaded video footage from ICHILLIN’s time at the baseball game where viewers can hear the crack of a baseball and see ICHILLIN and those in the audience near them spot a high-flying foul ball coming towards them. According to social media comments, the uploader chose not to include footage of the moment the ball made impact. The moment happens during the last five seconds of the video:

[embedded content]

Billboard has contacted KM Entertainment, the label and representation for ICHILLIN’, but did not immediately receive a response.

Consisting of members Chowon, E.Ji, Yeju, Jackie, Chaerin, Joonie and Jiyoon, ICHILLIN’ made their debut in September 2021 with the single “Got’Ya” to compete alongside the latest crop of K-pop groups vying for international attention. With three EPs under their belt, the group’s latest record, Feelin’ Hot, dropped on March 7, led by the single “On My Lips,” with its music video garnering almost a million views to date.

[embedded content]

All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
If you’re a sports fan, ESPN is the go-to hub for year-round live sporting events, including NBA, Major League Baseball games and NCAA tournaments including March Madness. The ESPN channel is one of the easiest ways to get access to games and analysis, but sports fans who have become cord cutters don’t have to re-invest in cable if they want to watch ESPN. There are a variety of affordable streaming options that can give you access to watch ESPN online.

Explore

Explore

See latest videos, charts and news

See latest videos, charts and news

These days, there are a number of live TV streaming platforms that include ESPN as well as hundreds of other channels that’ll get you access to NHL, MLB and more online at home. Plus, most of the platforms include promos and free trials that’ll help save you additional money while allowing you to watch ESPN online for free.

Trending on Billboard

Keep reading to learn how to watch ESPN at home without cable.

How to Watch ESPN Online Without Cable

ESPN+ is the official streaming platform for ESPN, and a subscription includes instant access to games and more exclusive content for $10.99/month. You can save more than 15% off by purchasing an annual subscription for $109.99/year. There is no free ESPN+ trial, but it does include exclusive on-demand videos and access to content from what was formerly known as ESPN Insider.

In addition to live sports, ESPN+ has original shows to stream on-demand, plus game recaps and analysis hosted by Peyton Manning, a shorter version of NFL Primetime and full replays of historic NFL matchups.

To expand your savings and content offerings, you can also bundle ESPN+ with Hulu and Disney+ for a single monthly price of just $14.99 for all three services.

How to Watch ESPN Online Free

While ESPN+ doesn’t currently offer a free trial, there are other streamers that offer ESPN online free. If you want access to ESPN and additional channels, you can take advantage of DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV and Fubo, which are all offering free trials or promos right now. Some of them can give you free access to ESPN for up to a week.

Here are all the ways to watch ESPN online, including ways to stream ESPN online for free.

DirecTV Stream

DirecTV Stream is providing new users with a five-day free trial when you sign up for one of the four packages offered by the streaming service. All of the packages include ESPN so you can watch the channel online.

In addition, you can save $30 when you combine a streaming package with a “Sports Pack.” Right now, the Entertainment + Sports Pack is $85 (reg. $95) for the first three months and includes ESPN. After the three months is over, you’ll be charged the regular package price.

Local channels are included in the streaming packages as well as unlimited DVR storage and the ability to stream on as many smart devices as you want.

Sling TV

Sling TV is providing new users half-off their first month when they sign up for one of the three packages available. ESPN is only included in the Orange and Orange + Blue packages, which you can get for as low as $20 for the first month (reg. $40). After your first month you’ll be charged the full package price.

The Orange package includes 32 channels and can be streamed on one device at once. For even more channel options including FS1 and the NFL Network, you can combine both plans for $27.50 for the first month (reg. $55/month) and get access to 68 channels.

Fubo

Fubo is another affordable option you can take advantage of to watch ESPN online. The streamer offers a seven-day free trial that’ll give you access to ESPN free and more than 100 live TV channels.

After your free trial is over, Fubo’s Pro Plan is its cheapest option at $79.99/month and it comes with 199 channels, 1000 hours of DVR storage and the ability to watch content on up to 10 screens at once. You can also upgrade to its Premier plan for $99.99/month, which includes everything in its Elite plan as well as access to Showtime and 275 channels.

Hulu + Live TV

For the most content options, Hulu + Live TV gives you access to the entire Hulu library in addition to more than 95 live TV channels — including ESPN for just $77/month.

And, unlike the rest of the options, you can also expand your content library by bundling Hulu + Live TV with Disney+ and ESPN+. You’ll not only have all of the Hulu library to watch, but also exclusive and original programming available exclusively on ESPN+.

HipHopWired Featured Video

Source: @dodgers / Los Angeles Dodgers
The Los Angeles Dodgers definitely won MLB’s offseason when they signed both Shohei Ohtania and Yoshinobu Yamamoto and if that wasn’t enough, Vanessa Bryant went and blessed their players with an exclusive version of the highly popular Nike Kobe 6’s this past Saturday (April 13). 

To commemorate the anniversary of Kobe Bryant’s final game in the NBA (Mamba Day), Vanessa took to Dodger Stadium and gifted some of the players and managers a pair of the Kobe sneakers draped in white and Dodger blue. While sneakerheads were busy taking L’s on the Nike SNKRS app trying to hit on the Nike Kobe 4 Protro “Philly,” Nike Kobe 6 Protro “Italian Camo” and Nike Kobe 8 Protro “Venice Beach,”‘s, the Dodgers were getting exclusive pairs that we’ll probably never see get a general release.
Life is unfair sometimes, but it is what it is.

Needless to say the Dodgers players were more than happy to receive their gifts and being that they don’t need any extra money you probably won’t be seeing any of these hit the secondary market anytime soon. Maybe a bench warmer who gets cut from the team might bubble his pair. You never know.
Check out the “Dodgers” Nike Kobe 6’s below and let us know if you’d want to see these hit the streets in the comment section.

These are lowkey hard.

All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
Draft Day is almost here. The 2024 WNBA Draft will broadcast live from the Brooklyn Academy of Music in Brooklyn, N.Y. on Monday (April 15).

Iowa’s Caitlin Clark, LSU’s Angel Reese, Stanford’s Cameron Brink and Tennessee’s Rikea Jackson are some of the stars of women’s college basketball that will be entering the league. Clark, the all-time NCAA scorer, is expected to be the No. 1 draft pick.

Keep reading for details on when and how to watch the WNBA draft without cable.

Explore

Explore

See latest videos, charts and news

See latest videos, charts and news

How to Watch the WNBA Draft on ESPN Without Cable

The 2024 WNBA Draft is presented by State Farm and will air at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN. And you don’t need cable to watch live or on-demand, from any location and various streaming devices.

You can watch ESPN live on DirecTV Stream, Sling TV, Fubo and Hulu + Live TV. Get instant access to ESPN and other sports channels for one low price — all you need is internet access (and ExpressVPN to stream internationally).

Trending on Billboard

Subscribe to DirecTV Stream or Fubo to watch ESPN and over 75 other channels. Both streaming plans include a free trial, DVR recording and the ability to stream from multiple devices at once.

Subscribe to Sling TV and save $20 off your first month. The streaming plan includes 30+ channels such as ESPN, TBS, FS1, FX and other channels.

ESPN will air coverage of first round pick from five team draft rooms located in Indiana, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, and Washington. The network will also broadcast live coverage from the Indiana Fever and Los Angeles Sparks official watch parties.

ESPN’s Ryan Ruocco will host the draft broadcast alongside analysts Rebecca Lobo and Andraya Carter and reporter Holly Rowe. The WNBA draft festivities starts with the WNBA Countdown Presented by Google at 7 p.m. ET and hosted by LaChina Robinson, along with analysts Carolyn Peck and Chiney Ogwumike. The pre-show will features “interviews with key draftees,” highlight from Clark’s college basketball career and a fashion rundown, per ESPN.

After a record-breaking NCAA Women’s championship that saw the highest ratings in championship history, Reese hopes the ratings surge will extend to the WNBA.

“I think I’ve done a lot in college and so many different players have done the same thing. Being able to take this to the [WNBA] is where you want to do it at. And I think they deserve it, especially the vets,” Reese told the New York Post on Friday. “I mean they’ve done a great job, laying the groundwork for us.”

In honor of Karol G being the most streamed female Latin artist on Spotify globally for four years in a row, the Colombian hitmaker’s barbed-wire heart logo will be featured on FC Barcelona jerseys as part of the Spanish club’s partnership with Spotify. The logo will be worn for the FC Barcelona Femení Liga F […]

All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
If it seems as though almost everyone you know is rock climbing these days, you’re not far off. Climbing and bouldering have become the newest hobby to take over cities, with an annual growth rate of 7%, according to Gutnix’s 2024 market data report.

Explore

Explore

See latest videos, charts and news

See latest videos, charts and news

Even artists have hopped onto the trend, including Lady Gaga, who posted a photo mid-climb on her Instagram back in 2020. Jared Leto was also spotted indoor rock climbing with dogfluencer Maxine the Fluffy Corgi strapped into his backpack back in September.

Similar to the sudden growth in pickleball, climbing has become a new go-to for exercise as it’s easily accessible and affordable to participate in — not to mention, it’s also Hollywood-approved.

Trending on Billboard

To help you kickstart your bouldering and climbing journey, Billboard Shopping spoke with professional rock climbers including U.S. National Team member Margo Hayes who made history as the first woman to conquer a 9a graded route (free climbs are ranked on a scale of one-10 with one being the easiest and 10 being the hardest) and climbing Olympian Shauna Coxsey to learn more about the sport and determine the best climbing gear for all levels.

What Are Good Climbing Clothes?

Both Coxsey and Hayes point out that the best climbing apparel should provide comfort and give to help you climb with ease. “As you progress through climbing, you will put your body into some wild and fun shapes so you never want your clothes to hold you back,” Coxsey tells Billboard.

Your climbing outfit will also depend on whether you’re indoors or outside. “When I’m bouldering/training in the gym, I most often wear basic athletic wear such as leggings and a tank top or sports bra,” says Hayes. Whereas, if you’re outside, she adds, you’ll want to make sure you have some layers.

Looking for the best climbing clothes online? Here’s what the experts recommend.

Coxsey’s pant pick

Adidas Women’s Terrex Xperior Pants

$79.88

$110.00

27% off

$120

$130

If you’re planning on climbing outdoors, Coxsey recommends these Adidas pants for their cozy feel and ability to let you climb with ease. The material is also breathable for added ventilation to help keep your body temperature regulated.“A comfortable stretchy pair of trousers are essential and the Adidas Terrex Xperior Trousers are so good for a day climbing outside on rock,” she notes.

Hayes Jacket Pick

The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket

Hayes’ go-to layer is The North Face’s luxurious puffer that can be worn both on and off the climbing wall. “When I’m rock climbing outside, because the elements and weather can be unpredictable, it’s necessary to bring layers with you,” she says. “No matter the weather, I always bring my TNF puffy jacket with me. The golden rule is that it’s always better to take layers off than be stuck outside without enough.”

What Is the Best Climbing Gear?

To help you make sure you stock up on the right gear, the professional climbers shared what climbing gear to buy online as well as some of their favorite picks.

Bouldering and climbing will require different types of gear. Bouldering, Hayes believes, is the easiest one to stock up on gear as it requires the least amount of equipment.

“When you’re bouldering you typically only need a chalk bag and shoes, this is why it’s so easily accessible,” she says. “Nowadays gym bouldering is really popular because it’s a simple way you can get a workout even when you’re on your own. When you boulder outside, you do need to bring crash pads to land on. Bouldering outdoors can always be dangerous; however, it’s much more dangerous without a cushioned landing spot.”

Coxsey adds that you should also invest in a chalk brush for indoor bouldering, “to clean the rock or the holds after you climb to leave the climb as you found it for the next person.”

Climbing anything taller than a normal boulder will require more safety equipment, according to both pro climbers. That consists of gear including a harness, rope and belay device (to name a few).

“Additionally, you can’t sport climb alone, so you need a partner who you deeply trust” Hayes advises. “Also, make sure to always tie a knot in the end of your rope for safety!”

Here’s the best climbing gear to buy online, according to the pros.

hayes’ indoor climbing shoes pick

La Sportiva Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes

$80.05

$88.95

10% off

When it comes to climbing shoes, Hayes claims, “My favorite shoes are made by La Sportiva.” With many styles to choose from, Amazon shoppers have deemed the Tarantulace style to be a top contender. The style is not only vibrant in shade, but features an all leather upper that’s breathable and stretchy to help form to your foot as well as a heel cup to keep your foot in place while you climb. This style tends to run large, according to the brand, so size down for the best fit. The shoe is also available in men’s sizes here.

coxsey’s outdoor climbing shoe pick

Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2 Gore-TEX Hiking Shoe

$101.60

$230.00

56% off

Outdoor climbing requires a shoe with traction for stability. If you’re looking for a pro-approved style, Coxsey likes the Adidas Terrex Freehikers as she claims they’re “super comfy but with some great grip to get up any tricky paths.” Plus, they’re on sale for over half-off right now.

helmet pick

PETZL, Vertex Vent Helmet, Black

$93

$99.95

7% off

Protect your head from bumps and falls with a sturdy helmet like this black version by Petzl. It comes with an adjustable chin strap to fix to your liking and ventilation and side holes to help provide airflow to keep your head from overheating.

harness pick

Ttechouter Adjustable Thickness Climbing Harness

$36.99

$49.99

26% off

Add this climbing harness to your cart to keep you snug yet secure as you climb outdoors. It comes with an adjustable waist and leg thickness as well as metal loops to hook your climbing hear to. For added comfort, the harness comes padded to keep you safe yet cozy as you tackle your latest climb.

rope pick

Mammut Crag Dry Rope – 9.5mm

The Mammut Crag Dry Rope comes in three lengths including 60, 70 and 80 meters that’s been dry-treated to use on various terrains including rock and ice. The thick and sturdy material was also designed to repel water, dirt and abrasion, so you can climb safely and worry-free.

belay pick

Petzl GriGri + Belay Device

$114.35

$139.95

18% off

Climbing with a partner requires a proper belay device for added safety. Hayes’ go-to brand Petzl has one for 19% off on Amazon and that’s designed with cam-assisted blocking to make going down easier and more comfortable. It also comes equipped with an anti-panic handle that’ll stop your belay if the rope is tugged on too hard.

chalk bag pick

Sukoa Chalk Bag

$14.87

$19.95

25% off

Carry your chalk with Sukoa’s portable chalk bag for 25% off, dropping the price to less than $15. The design has been labeled an Amazon Choice for Climbing Chalk Bags by Sukoa Sports and has racked up more than 2,000 verified five star reviews for its leak-proof design and extra compartments that can hold small essentials including your smartphone.

chalk pick

Friction Labs Unicorn Dust Chalk for Rock Climbing

Hayes prefers to uses Friction Labs chalk, which she claims is the “stickiest” for gripping onto boulders or hand holds on the wall. The Unicorn Dust is a more fine formula that’s Non-toxic, silica-free and pigment-free that aims to be safe for all skin types. It’s also versatile to use indoors or outdoors.

chalk brush pick

Climbing & Bouldering Brush

$11.99

$12.99

8% off

To assist in cleaning handholds as you climb, these climbing brushes will easily swipe and dust away chalk. Each pack comes with two brushes that are slim and compact, so you can slip it inside a pocket or small bag. The bristles are tapered to help with the longevity of the brush while the handle is ergonomic for a more comfortable hold.

bouldering mat pick

Evolv Drop Pad

Cushion any falls with a comfortable drop pad that’ll protect you from getting any major injuries. It comes with a foldable design and attached handle that’ll make transporting it from one place to another easier. The plush material was also designed to help soften any falls, so you can easily get back up on on the boulder.

carabiner pick

Rongsi Heavy Duty Carabiner

A sturdy carabiner is important if you plan on linking together your ropes and harnesses. Walmart is offering a two-pack for less than $15 with each one having the capacity to hold up to 5,600 pounds each. It also uses a carbon steel material for long-lasting durability.

Climbing Tips for Beginners

These pros didn’t just become masters at climbing overnight and if you’re just starting out, the best thing you can do, according to Coxsey is to “just climb!” Once you find your go-to climbing gym, you should take advantage of the coaching or any inductions offered.

“From your local climbing wall, you will find a whole community of climbers who will be able to help take you outside and give you a taste of climbing on rock for the first time,” she adds.

While it may be tempting to just jump right in, Hayes also points out that you shouldn’t rush to push yourself.

“It’s very important to grow a strong foundation,” she says. “Also, make sure that you are climbing within the limits that you are comfortable with. Grades don’t really matter as long as you’re enjoying the challenge and having fun.”

For more product recommendations, check out our roundups of the best fleece-lined leggings, running shorts and travel backpacks.