Tori Kelly to Sing National Anthem at NBA Finals Game 1

The highly anticipated 2026 NBA Finals, featuring the San Antonio Spurs and New York Knicks, will kick off with Game 1 on Wednesday evening. The performance of the national anthem will be led by American singer-songwriter Tori Kelly at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio.

The NBA announced via social media that “National Anthem and starting lineup presentations will be fully integrated into ABC telecasts, enhancing the scale and energy of the Finals opening moments.” Kelly, known for her singing, songwriting, and acting talents, is set to deliver a stirring rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” before the game begins.

This matchup marks a significant moment for the Knicks, who are making their first Finals appearance since 1999, when they were defeated by the Spurs. The New York team has not claimed an NBA championship since 1973 but enters this Finals series riding a wave of momentum, having won 11 consecutive games. Under the leadership of Jalen Brunson, they achieved back-to-back series sweeps against the Philadelphia 76ers and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The Spurs, on the other hand, reached the Finals by overcoming the reigning champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, in the Western Conference Finals. Star player Victor Wembanyama, just 22 years old, was named MVP of that seven-game series, showcasing his immense talent as he leads his team into this championship clash.

Game 1 of the NBA Finals is scheduled to begin at 8:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday.