Hoop it up, baby! Some sports are just inherently better in HD because of their intimacy with the action on the playing field, and basketball certainly qualifies in that category.

Unlike other sports, too, hoopsters don’t wear masks or hats (but thankfully their uniforms cover a lot more than they did in the 70s and 80s). It’s even more up close and personal now, as NBA TV has launched its HD channel on DirecTV and Dish Network in time for this week’s start of the season.

Judging from the lineup of live games, there’s no shortage of playoff-caliber teams on there, though Laker fans (such as myself) might want to keep our fingers crossed that Kobe actually doesn’t get traded, since there’s eight L.A. contests scheduled. Then again, there are six Chicago Bulls games, and that Lakers@Bulls match-up on Dec. 18 could be especially intriguing. Bryant could be good for 60-plus that night no matter which side he’s on.

From the looks of it, there are a good three to four games per week in high-def, so combine that with ESPN’s NBA programming and your regional sports networks, if you’re a basketball fan this could be an incredible season of watching. Here’s the full schedule.

Via: Engadget HD

Arlen Schweiger - Managing editor of Electronic House Magazine

Arlen contributes product news items to electronichouse.com along with his role on the print publication. Got a tip? Send it along!