You're probably staring at your remote right now, wondering why finding a basketball game feels like solving a Rubik's Cube. It shouldn't be this hard to figure out what channel is pacers on tonight, yet here we are. Between the rebrand of regional networks and the constant shuffle of streaming rights, catching Tyrese Haliburton and the crew requires a bit of a roadmap. Tonight, January 17, 2026, the Indiana Pacers are hitting the road to face the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena, and the broadcast situation is specific.
The Short Answer: Where to Tune In
The game tips off at 7:30 PM EST. If you’re in the local Indiana market, you’ll find the game on FanDuel Sports Network Indiana. Yes, that’s the new name for what used to be Bally Sports. It’s the same channel number on your cable box, just a different logo in the corner of the screen.
For the folks living up in Michigan or the Detroit area, the game is airing on FanDuel Sports Network Detroit.
If you aren't near a TV or you’ve ditched cable entirely, you aren't out of luck. You can stream the action through the FanDuel Sports Network app, provided you have a participating cable provider or a standalone subscription.
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How to Watch the Pacers if You've Ditched Cable
The "cord-cutter" life is great until game day hits. Honestly, it’s the biggest hurdle for NBA fans. If you’re trying to figure out what channel is pacers on tonight and you don't have a traditional box, you have a few specific paths.
- Fubo: This is probably the easiest route for local fans. Fubo carries FanDuel Sports Network Indiana in its Pro and Elite packages. It’s basically cable via the internet.
- DIRECTV STREAM: They still carry the regional sports networks (RSNs) in their "Choice" package and above. It's pricey, but it's reliable.
- Amazon Prime Video: In a newer development for the 2025-26 season, you can actually add FanDuel Sports Network as a "channel" subscription directly inside Prime. It’s convenient if you already live in that app.
- FanDuel Sports Network+: This is the direct-to-consumer app. You pay a monthly fee (usually around $20) to watch the Pacers without a middleman.
What About National TV?
Tonight is not a national broadcast. You won't find this one on ESPN, TNT, or ABC. While the Pacers have gained more national respect after their recent deep playoff runs, a mid-January clash with the Pistons doesn't usually move the needle for the big networks.
This means "blackout" rules are in full effect.
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If you have NBA League Pass and you live in Indianapolis or the surrounding areas, tonight's game will be blacked out live. You'll have to wait until a few hours after the final buzzer to watch the replay. League Pass is strictly for out-of-market fans. So, if you're a Pacer fan living in Seattle or Florida, League Pass is your best friend tonight.
Why This Matchup Matters Right Now
The Pacers are in a weird spot. They've dealt with some injuries to the frontcourt and the Eastern Conference standings are tighter than a drum. Facing a Detroit team that has shown flashes of being a "trap" opponent means Indiana can't afford to sleepwalk through the first quarter.
Pascal Siakam has been the steady hand lately. When the offense stalls, they go to him in the mid-post. But for Indiana to win tonight, it's about the pace. They want to run. Detroit wants to slow it down and make it a physical grind.
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If you're watching the broadcast tonight, keep an eye on the bench rotation. Rick Carlisle has been experimenting with smaller lineups lately to try and jumpstart the defense.
Listening on the Radio
Sometimes you're stuck in the car or just prefer the old-school vibe. You can catch the radio broadcast on 93.5/107.5 The Fan in the Indianapolis area. Mark Boyle is a legend on the mic, and honestly, sometimes the radio call is more descriptive than the TV broadcast anyway.
Quick Checklist for Tonight
- Game Time: 7:30 PM EST.
- Primary Channel: FanDuel Sports Network Indiana.
- Opponent: Detroit Pistons (Away game).
- Streaming: Fubo, DIRECTV STREAM, or the FDSN app.
- National Status: None (Local/Regional only).
To make sure you don't miss tip-off, open your streaming app or turn on your cable box about ten minutes early. These regional networks love to do a "Pacers Live" pre-game show that gives you the latest on the injury report and starting lineups.
Make sure your FanDuel Sports Network app is updated. There’s nothing worse than seeing the "Update Required" spinning circle right as the ball goes into the air for the opening tip.