Kristin Chenoweth’s National Anthem Performance Sparks Mixed Reactions at Game 7

Oklahoma Native Takes Center Stage

Kristin Chenoweth, the celebrated Tony Award winner from Oklahoma, stepped into the spotlight to perform the national anthem before Game 7 of the NBA Finals, where the Oklahoma City Thunder faced off against the Indiana Pacers on June 22, 2025. The event took place at the Paycom Center, where a packed crowd was eager for both the game and the performance.

Mixed Reviews of the Performance

While Chenoweth’s performance received enthusiastic applause from the arena, viewers watching on ABC had varying opinions.

• Positive Feedback:

  • “Damn! That was one of the stronger National Anthems I’ve heard in a while!! Great job by Kristin Chenoweth!!”
  • “That national anthem performance got me ready to run through a wall,” another enthusiastic viewer exclaimed.
• Critical Reactions:
  • A few viewers didn’t hold back in their critiques. One commentator on X stated, “The Kristin Chenoweth rendition of the National Anthem was a difficult listen,” while another remarked, “What the hell was that national anthem?”
  • Comparisons were drawn to Fergie’s infamous performance at the 2018 NBA All-Star Game, with one viewer saying, “This is the worst National Anthem I ever heard.”

Despite the backlash, the passionate responses highlighted Chenoweth’s strong connection to her roots and her commitment to her hometown team.

Hometown Pride and Thunder Fan

Born in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, located about 115 miles from the Paycom Center, Chenoweth’s ties to her home state run deep. Before her illustrious career, she attended Oklahoma City University, where her love for the Thunder began to bloom.

• Her Thunder Spirit:
  • “I never miss a game unless I’m on stage,” she mentioned, showcasing her loyalty to the Thunder.
  • Chenoweth even went the extra mile to personalize her game day attire, spending hours embellishing a Thunder hat.

Nerves and Honor

Leading up to the performance, Chenoweth expressed mixed emotions.

• “I’ve had some pretty big moments in my life in the entertainment field, but this one, I don’t know why, makes me nervous,” she confessed.
• Despite her nerves, she felt honored to be chosen for the ceremonial performance: “I just am very honored that they asked. And I’m proud of these kids.”

Celebrating a Historic Win

Following the anthem, the Oklahoma City Thunder clinched their first NBA title, defeating the Indiana Pacers 103-91. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was named Finals MVP, scoring 29 points, further solidifying the team’s heroic night.

Chenoweth’s Inspiration from Young Talent

Kristin Chenoweth also shared that watching the young players on the Thunder inspires her to continue evolving in her career:

• “What inspires me lately is young talent. I’m seeing and watching and learning from them. Hopefully they’re learning from me.”

For updates on the NBA Finals, including the performances that captivate fans, check out resources like NBA.com and follow the latest news on the Oklahoma City Thunder.

By embracing her roots while capturing the spotlight on a historic night for her team, Kristin Chenoweth reinforced her deep connection to both basketball and Broadway, leaving an unforgettable mark at Game 7.