Why is Mickey Guyton Singing the National Anthem During the 2024 NBA Cup Final
The NBA Cup final between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Oklahoma City Thunder promises to be a star-studded event on Tuesday night. While the two teams battle for the prestigious NBA Cup, the evening will kick off with an electrifying rendition of the national anthem by acclaimed country and R&B singer Mickey Guyton.
Here’s everything you need to know about Guyton and why she was selected for this honor.
Who is Mickey Guyton?
Mickey Guyton, a talented singer-songwriter, was born in Arlington, Texas. Her journey into music began with inspiration from LeAnn Rimes, who performed the national anthem at a Texas Rangers game. For Guyton, singing the anthem at major events holds a special, full-circle significance.
Guyton moved to Los Angeles for college and later relocated to Nashville to pursue her music career. She released her debut single in 2015 and gained widespread acclaim for her powerful song “Black Like Me” in 2020, written in the wake of George Floyd’s death and the nationwide protests that followed.
With four Grammy nominations under her belt, as well as recognition from country music award shows, Guyton has established herself as a celebrated artist in both country and R&B genres.
Why is Mickey Guyton Singing the National Anthem?
Guyton’s reputation as a skilled performer on national stages makes her an ideal choice for the NBA Cup final. She previously delivered stunning renditions of the national anthem at major events, including:
- Super Bowl 56 (Rams vs. Bengals).
- The Democratic National Convention in 2020.
Although the NBA Cup final isn’t quite on par with the Super Bowl in terms of viewership, it is the centerpiece of the NBA’s regular season tournament, designed to capture the attention of fans nationwide. By inviting Guyton, the league aims to elevate the event’s stature and create a memorable pre-game moment.
Guyton’s Connection to Sports
While Mickey Guyton doesn’t have direct ties to the NBA or the participating teams, she’s no stranger to the sports world. She has attended the ESPY Awards multiple times and performed “Remember Her Name” at the 2022 ceremony, honoring the 50th anniversary of Title IX equal rights legislation.
NBA Cup Final: Bucks vs. Thunder
The game itself will feature two teams who’ve endured adversity on their paths to Las Vegas:
- Oklahoma City Thunder: Boasting the best record in the West (20-5), the Thunder overcame injuries to key players Isaiah Hartenstein and Chet Holmgren to make it to the final.
- Milwaukee Bucks: After a rough 2-8 start, the Bucks turned their season around with a 12-3 streak under Doc Rivers, putting themselves back in contention for a top-four seed in the East and a potential NBA Cup banner.
Why Guyton is the Perfect Choice
The NBA’s decision to bring Mickey Guyton on board aligns with its goal to turn the NBA Cup final into a marquee event. Her proven ability to deliver captivating anthem performances — including at America’s largest sporting event, the Super Bowl — ensures that the national anthem will set the stage for an unforgettable night.
As the Bucks and Thunder gear up for a showdown, Guyton’s voice will undoubtedly add to the excitement, making the NBA Cup final a night to remember.
