[UPDATED] Indiana Pacers Tap The String Cheese Incident’s Michael Kang For NBA Finals National Anthem

UPDATE (June 12): The String Cheese Incident’s Michael Kang delivered an impressive a capella rendition in Indianapolis ahead of the Pacers’ 116-107 victory against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 3. Watch:

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Michael Kang of The String Cheese Incident will sing “The Star Spangled Banner” on Wednesday, June 11 before the third game of the NBA Finals at Indianapolis’ Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The home team, the Indiana Pacers, are taking on the Oklahoma City Thunder in the best-of-seven series to determine the league’s 2025 champion.

The String Cheese Incident performed in Nashville, Indiana on May 23. Kang foreshadowed his appearance by telling the crowd if the Pacers made it to the finals, he would see them there.

What is the connection between the Indiana Pacers and Kang? Steve Simon, the eldest son of Pacers owner Herb Simon is a longtime Deadhead and jam fan. The heir to the team followed the Dead around the country for years as per the Indy Star.

Oklahoma Thunder coach Mark Daigneault also considers himself a Deadhead. He recently spoke with No Dunks about his favorite Grateful Dead songs and era.

The NBA Finals are currently tied after the Pacers won the opener and the Thunder came away with the victory in the second game. The crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse should be raucous on Wednesday for the series’ first game in Indianapolis.

The String Cheese Incident returns to the stage on Thursday, June 12 in Portland, Maine before headlining performances of the Northlands and All Good Now festivals this weekend.