Will ESPN Air College Basketball In 4K In 2025?

By Phillip Swann
The TV Answer Man – Follow me on X.

TV Answer Man, do you know if ESPN will have college basketball in 4K this year like they did last year? – Jamal, Sacramento.

Jamal, I have good news for you. ESPN’s upscaled 4K coverage of college hoops returns tomorrow night (January 25) at 8:30 p.m. ET when it will air the Tennessee at Auburn game in the format. This is a big one, too. Auburn is the nation’s top ranked team while Tennessee is 6th ranked. (ESPN’s main channel will simulcast the game in High Definition.)

Which TV Providers Will Show Tennessee-Auburn In 4K?

YouTube TV, Dish, Sling TV, DIRECTV, DIRECTV Stream, Comcast, Optimum and Verizon are expected to offer the game on their ESPN 4K channels. ESPN does not offer 4K programming on its ESPN TV Everywhere app or ESPN+.

What Is Upscaled 4K?

The ESPN 4K broadcast will be ‘upscaled’ from 1080p HD.  The upscaled 4K means that the game will be produced in 1080p HD on site and upgraded to 4K for the home transmission. ESPN switched to upscaled 4K more than a year ago after previously doing some games in native 4K.

Is It Worth Watching a Game In Upscaled 4K?

Yes. From personal experience, I can assure you the picture is better. The high-def image from ESPN sometimes lacks detail and makes you wonder if it’s actually in high-def. However, the 4K image removes the blurriness and adds a realistic feel to the picture.

Jamal, hope that helps. Happy viewing and stay safe!

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The TV Answer Man is veteran journalist Phillip Swann who has covered the TV technology scene for more than three decades. He will report on the latest news and answer your questions regarding new devices and services that are changing the way you watch television. See the bio for Phillip Swann here.