- Most sports networks, including ESPN, have created websites that offer sports broadcast programming that can be watched on a computer. ESPN3, formerly known as ESPN 360, is the network's website that offers a variety of sports broadcasts, including original sports programming and simulcast broadcasts of sporting events aired on the network's other channels, such as ESPN2 and ESPNU. Many smartphones also support this cable and satellite TV alternative, but require the download and installation of a special application for the websites to work properly. You must also pay to access this type of service, but most sports networks provide free highlights or condensed versions of broadcasted games on these websites.
- As of the date of publication, a variety of electronics companies including Samsung, Panasonic and LG, produce Internet-ready TVs that allow you to connect directly to the Web. Through a wireless broadband Internet connection, you can access the sports programming websites and watch them directly on an Internet-ready TV. Apple TV, brought to you by the same makers of the iPhone and iPad, is a converter box that can be connected to a TV that isn't Internet-ready and facilitates access to the Internet for sports and other programming.
- Before cable TV and the Internet, one of the few options for viewing sports was to attend a game at a local stadium or arena. At the time of publication, many of these events are well attended in person by thousands of fans, but are watched by many more, millions more in some instances, on TV. Few sports-watching experiences can top this alternative and the thrill of being at the stadium watching from the upper deck or from behind a goal post.
- Network TV, such as Fox, CBS, ABC and NBC, offer free sports programming, though in limited amounts compared to what's offered on cable TV. For example, at the time of publication, NBC broadcasts Sunday Night Football during the NFL's regular season and Fox airs MLB's World Series during pro baseball's postseason. If you don't have cable TV or its unavailable in your area, consider one of the satellite providers, such as DirecTV, who offer the same programming offered by cable TV. If funds are tight and you can't afford any type of subscription TV or Internet service, many sports bars show sports programming on big-screen TVs for free.
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