After the NFL found tons of success with Peyton and Eli Manning’s broadcast, “Manningcast”, ESPN and Omaha Productions are looking to create an alternate broadcast for the NBA Cup. Instead of bringing on former players, ESPN has decided to create a new broadcast hosted by basketball fanatic and well-known comedian Kevin Hart. The new series will be called “NBA Unplugged with Kevin Hart”.
The production is a collaboration between ESPN, Omaha Productions, and Hart’s own Hartbeat. The series debut episode is expected to air on ESPN2 on December 9th for the NBA In-Season Tournament Championship Game.
Hart will be joined alongside his friends, Plastic Cup Boyz, which includes Joey Wells, Will Horton, and Na’im Lynn. Like the Manningcast, it’s expected to have special appearances from other athletes and celebrities.
Kevin Hart To Host Alternate Broadcast For NBA Season
Hart is hosting his own alternate broadcast for the NBA on ESPN2. Similar to the Manningcast, Hart will be giving his own take on the NBA games with some of his comedic flare.
Hart, along with the Plastic Cup boys’ Joey Wells, Will Horton, and Na’Im Lynn will give fans an inside look at how the comedian and his friends watch the game. The show is expected to have lively discussions, debates, and lots of banter.
Unplugged with Kevin Hart is set to debut on Saturday, December 9 at 8:30 p.m. ET on ESPN, as the celebrities give their take on the NBA Cup. The original broadcast will be available on ABC. The production has signed on for seven episodes and will air throughout the season during marquee NBA games on ESPN platforms.
Unplugged with Kevin Hart Schedule
Check out the first three games scheduled for Unplugged with Kevin Hart.
| Date | Time (ET) | Event | Platforms |
| Sat, Dec 9 | 8:30 p.m. | NBA In-Season Tournament Championship Game | ESPN2, ESPN App |
| Thu, Jan 5 | 7:30 p.m. | New York Knicks vs. Philadelphia 76ers | ESPN2, ESPN App |
| Mon, Apr 10 | 7:30 p.m. | Dallas Mavericks vs. Miami Heat | ESPN2, ESPN App |
