Kristin Chenoweth took center stage at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City on June 22, delivering a rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" before the decisive Game 7 between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers.
The 56-year-old singer and actress, hailing from Oklahoma, infused her performance with a dramatic flair that left some basketball enthusiasts scratching their heads. "Completely ruined the anthem with whatever that high note was at the end," one viewer expressed on X, while another described the performance as a "difficult listen."
Amidst the criticism, Chenoweth also garnered praise from numerous fans. "I’m not religious by any stretch, but this is exactly what is missing from a lot of music nowadays," one supporter commented on X, highlighting the emotional depth she brought to the song. "Heart. Soul. Sincerity. Love Kristin Chenoweth."
Another fan chimed in, suggesting, "Kristin Chenoweth should sing the national anthem at every event." The excitement surrounding her appearance even sparked a lighthearted moment in a local bar, where a viewer recalled someone exclaiming, "LOOK, IT’S GLINDA!" when Chenoweth was shown on screen.
Prior to the game, which concluded with the Thunder defeating the Pacers 103-91 to secure their first NBA title, Chenoweth expressed her enthusiasm for performing at such a significant event. "I’m an Okie, and I’ve been a huge basketball fan my whole life," she stated in a video shared by the NBA. "Eight years ago, I named my dog Thunder. I do love this song and I take it very seriously. I definitely do my own version. Thunder Up!"
In a playful nod to her love for the team, she mentioned her desire to name her next dog Rumble, after the Thunder’s bison mascot. Before the game, she shared a photo of herself with her dog, captioning it, "SO proud of these boys. Let’s go!!"
Following her performance, Chenoweth enjoyed a courtside view of the game. After the Thunder's victory, she celebrated by posting a jubilant video on her Instagram Story, exclaiming, "We did it!"
