ESPN, Hartbeat, and Omaha Productions today announced a collaboration on a new, NBA-focused alternate presentation called NBA Unplugged with Kevin Hart. It will star comedian, actor, and 4-time NBA Celebrity All-Star Game M.V.P. Kevin Hart and the Plastic Cup Boyz, Joey Wells, Will Horton, and Na’im Lynn. The shows will capture the authentic way Kevin Hart and his friends watch the NBA with lively discussion, debate and banter – along with special guest appearances from top athletes and celebrities.
Unplugged with Kevin Hart is set to debut on Saturday, December 9, @ 8:30PM ET on ESPN2 for the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament Championship Game. The traditional game broadcast will be available on ABC. Seven episodes of Unplugged with Kevin Hart will air throughout the season tied to marquee NBA games on ESPN platforms.
Current Unplugged with Kevin Hart schedule:
Date Time (ET) Event Platforms
Saturday, December 9 8:30PM NBA In-Season Tournament Championship Game ESPN2, ESPN App
Friday, January 5 7:30PM New York Knicks vs. Philadelphia 76ers ESPN2, ESPN App
Wednesday, April 10 7:30PM Dallas Mavericks vs. Miami Heat ESPN2, ESPN App
This unique partnership marks Hartbeat’s ongoing investment into delivering audiences impactful content that unites the worlds of comedy sports and culture. Notably, Hartbeat is home to the award-winning digital talk show, “Cold As Balls” and the critically acclaimed “Olympic Highlights” featuring Kevin Hart and Snoop Dogg.
This partnership aligns with Omaha Productions’ vision to uplift and unify through content, including the two-time Emmy®-winning “Monday Night Football with Peyton and Eli” on ESPN and Netflix’s hit show “Quarterback”.
More dates will be announced as the season continues. All Unplugged with Kevin Hart telecasts will also be available on the ESPN App.