Before the tip-off of Game 2 of the NBA Finals, the Frost Bank Center crowd was treated to a version of 'The Star-Spangled Banner' that left many fans less than impressed. Singer Kels, a 30-year-old from Pittsburgh, took the stage for the national anthem ahead of the New York Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs matchup. While she gained viral fame earlier this year for her performance at the 2026 NFL Draft, this time the reaction was far from positive.
Social media erupted with criticism shortly after Kels finished her rendition. One fan posted, 'Kels pulling a Fergie,' referencing the infamous 2018 All-Star Game performance by the singer. Another comment read, 'Whoever hired this person to sing this national anthem like a country karaoke needs to be fired.' Others were more direct: 'Kels… Get off the court.'
The backlash didn't stop there. A fourth fan joked, 'The Spurs have 'kels' (whoever that is) singing the national anthem and the Knicks are gonna bust out like Jennifer Lopez or something for Game 3.' Another user added, 'I don’t know who Kels is but that was the driest version of The Star-Spangled Banner I’ve ever heard.'
The criticism echoes the ongoing debate over national anthem performances during the Finals, with some fans questioning the choice of performers. The Spurs themselves have been in the spotlight recently for Wembanyama's anthem gesture, which sparked similar outrage.
On the court, the Spurs are in a must-win situation after dropping Game 1 at home, 105-95. Despite a strong start, they couldn't contain Knicks star Jalen Brunson in crunch time. Victor Wembanyama, who scored 26 points but shot just 6-of-21 from the field, took full responsibility. 'I'm gonna figure it out. I was bad tonight,' the French phenom said. 'It's not more complicated than that.'
The Spurs need a victory before the series shifts to New York for Game 3. Wembanyama's energy has been a concern, with some analysts noting he looked gassed in the opener. The team will need a better performance from their star to avoid falling into a 2-0 hole.
As the Finals continue, the focus remains on the court, but the national anthem controversy has added an unexpected layer of drama. Whether Kels' performance will be remembered as a footnote or a defining moment of the series remains to be seen.
