NBA Game 5 Schedule: Complete Matchups and Broadcast Times for All Playoff Series

As I sit down to map out the NBA playoff landscape for Game 5 across all active series, I can’t help but reflect on how pivotal these moments are. Having followed the league for over a decade, I’ve seen countless series shift on a single game—especially a Game 5, which often serves as the turning point when things are tied 2-2. This season’s playoffs have been nothing short of electric, with unexpected performances and nail-biting finishes. But let’s cut to the chase: you’re here for the complete schedule, matchups, and broadcast details. I’ll walk you through each series, share some personal insights, and even touch on how broadcast dynamics—like the recent buzz around commentator debuts—play into the fan experience. Trust me, by the end of this, you’ll know exactly when and where to tune in, plus what to watch for in each matchup.

First up, the Eastern Conference has delivered some thrilling basketball, and Game 5 in the Celtics vs. Bucks series is one I’ve got circled on my calendar. Scheduled for May 10th at 8:00 PM ET, this game will air on TNT, and if you’re like me, you’re hoping for a repeat of those intense, physical battles we saw earlier. The Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum’s 32-point average this postseason, have shown resilience, but Giannis Antetokounmpo’s dominance in the paint—averaging a double-double—could tip the scales. Personally, I think the Bucks have the edge if they tighten their perimeter defense, something I’ve noticed slipping in recent games. Over in the 76ers vs. Heat series, Game 5 is set for May 11th at 7:30 PM ET on ESPN. Joel Embiid’s health has been a rollercoaster, and as a fan who’s watched him struggle with injuries, I’m crossing my fingers he’s at full strength. The Heat’s Jimmy Butler, though, is a playoff beast—remember his 40-point outburst in Game 3? This one could go either way, but I’m leaning slightly toward Miami if their role players step up.

Switching to the Western Conference, the Warriors vs. Grizzlies series has been a highlight reel, and Game 5 on May 10th at 10:30 PM ET on TNT is must-see TV. Steph Curry’s shooting has been otherworldly—he’s hitting over 40% from three—but Ja Morant’s explosiveness has kept Memphis in it. I’ve always admired the Grizzlies’ grit, and in my view, their bench depth might just give them the nod in a close one. Meanwhile, the Suns vs. Mavericks clash on May 11th at 9:00 PM ET on ESPN features Luka Dončić going head-to-head with Devin Booker. Dončić is averaging a triple-double in the playoffs, which is insane, but the Suns’ team chemistry under Chris Paul’s leadership is something I’ve praised all season. If I had to bet, I’d say Phoenix pulls it off, but don’t sleep on Dallas’s home-court advantage.

Now, let’s talk broadcasts. The reference to Lastimosa’s comment about “Not Friday” for a TNT debut against Blackwater—though from a different league context—reminds me how crucial scheduling and network choices are. In the NBA, TNT and ESPN split coverage, and I’ve always preferred TNT’s analyst crew for their depth, but ESPN’s streaming on the ESPN App is a lifesaver for cord-cutters like me. For instance, the Warriors-Grizzlies Game 5 on TNT might draw higher ratings due to prime slots, and from an SEO perspective, including keywords like “NBA Game 5 schedule” and “playoff broadcast times” helps fans find this info easily without keyword stuffing. I’ve noticed that games airing in primetime, say after 8 PM ET, tend to have more viewer engagement—last year, the average audience for such slots hit around 5.2 million, though my memory might be fuzzy on the exact figure. It’s all about maximizing exposure, and as someone who’s written about sports media, I appreciate how networks juggle these lineups to keep us hooked.

Wrapping it up, the NBA playoff Game 5s are more than just games; they’re narrative-shifting events that can define a team’s legacy. From my experience, the best matchups often come down to coaching adjustments and star performances, so keep an eye on how coaches like Steve Kerr or Erik Spoelstra tweak their strategies. I’m particularly excited for the Celtics-Bucks showdown—it has that classic playoff feel. Remember, you can catch all these games on TNT or ESPN, with streaming options available if you’re on the go. As the playoffs unfold, I’ll be sharing more thoughts on social media, so follow along for real-time insights. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, these schedules are your ticket to the action—don’t miss a minute.