Christine Chenoweth took pride in performing “Star Spangled Banner” on Sunday night before Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals.
The 56-year-old Broadway star shared her experience on Instagram, mentioning that her performance stirred some controversy online, leading her to feel “hated” by some.
Hailing from Oklahoma, Chenoweth connected with her 1.5 million Instagram followers as the Thunder triumphed over the Pacers, 103-91.
Critics who disliked her rendition didn’t embarrass her at all.
Before the game started, she reflected on the significance of singing the national anthem.
“I’m an okie. I’ve been a huge fan all my life,” she expressed in a video posted on the Thunder’s page. “Eight years ago, I even named my dog Thunder.”
“I take this song very seriously and definitely put my own spin on it,” she added.
Decked out in thunder-themed graphic tees and shiny silver boots, the “Evil” star incorporated her Broadway flair into the performance, hitting high notes that drew applause from the crowd at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City.
However, her finale didn’t resonate with everyone.
Chenoweth, a member of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame and an alumna of Oklahoma City University, admitted she felt butterflies before her Game 7 performance.
“If there were an anxiety drug for Thunder fans, I’d be first in line for it,” she joked after her sound check.
“Unless you’re actually on stage, you might miss the game,” she said. “I was a high school cheerleader in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, and while I loved soccer, basketball was my favorite.”
