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2w ago

Kristin Chenoweth’s Anthem Splits Fans as Thunder Clinch First NBA Title

Her bold operatic flair before Game 7 prompted applause in the arena, drawing critique on social media.

Kristin Chenoweth sings the national anthem before the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder played in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals on June 22, 2025, at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City.
Kristin Chenoweth performs during the 54th annual Songwriters Hall of Fame induction and awards gala on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York.
Kristin Chenoweth sings the national anthem before game seven of the 2025 NBA Finals at Paycom Center, June 22, 2025, Oklahoma City.

Overview

  • Kristin Chenoweth, an Oklahoma native and lifelong Thunder supporter, sang the national anthem ahead of Game 7 of the NBA Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers.
  • She held a sustained, high operatic note at the end of her rendition that earned cheers from the Paycom Center crowd but drew sharp criticism from viewers on the ABC broadcast.
  • The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Pacers 103-91 to capture their first NBA championship in franchise history.
  • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Finals with 29 points in Game 7 and was named the series’ Most Valuable Player.
  • After the performance, Chenoweth acknowledged her nerves and shared an Instagram message reading “the price of authenticity is being disliked” in response to mixed reactions.