#USA #Oklahoma City #NBA Finals #Miri Ben-Ari #Halftime Show

A Historic Moment in Sports and Music

In a significant milestone that merges the worlds of sports and music, Miri Ben-Ari, the Grammy Award-winning violinist and music-tech entrepreneur, made history by being the first artist ever to headline a halftime performance during the NBA Finals. On June 22, 2025, she captivated audiences during Game 7 between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers, a performance that garnered widespread acclaim.

Ben-Ari, known for her unique musical fusion that blends classical, hip-hop, and electronic elements, was specially chosen by the Oklahoma City Thunder to deliver what has become one of the most coveted entertainment slots in sports. Her performance featured an electrifying set that included her original piece “Fur Elise” and an innovative arrangement of AC/DC’s classic “Thunder,” prepared just for the occasion. This pushed the boundaries of what a halftime show could be, transforming it into a celebration of culture, creativity, and athleticism.

“I’m honored to make history on the NBA Finals stage,” Miri Ben-Ari expressed. “Being the first artist to headline such a prestigious show gave me a profound sense of responsibility. I aimed to pave the way for others by bringing my violin to the center court, uniting music, culture, and the incredible spirit of the game. I wanted to rock this halftime like thunder—and I achieved that!”

This significant event marks a turning point for entertainment during NBA games, signifying the league's evolving perspective on halftime shows by featuring artists who are not only iconic but also innovative and culturally relevant. Ben-Ari is celebrated as the first and only violinist to win a Grammy Award in the hip-hop category, highlighting her unique position at the intersection of tradition and modern musical expression.

About Miri Ben-Ari

Miri Ben-Ari has garnered global recognition as a violinist, producer, and entrepreneur in the music technology field. As a 'Goodwill Ambassador of Music' for the United Nations and an influential keynote speaker, she inspires many with her impactful contributions to both music and community. The founder of the Symphony of Brotherhood School program, she has created an unprecedented sound that seamlessly fuses various music genres.

Originally hailing from Israel, Ben-Ari is a classically trained violinist who was mentored by the late Isaac Stern. Her impressive portfolio includes collaborations with prominent artists such as Kanye West, Jay-Z, Alicia Keys, Wyclef Jean, Janet Jackson, and John Legend. Her album, The Hip Hop Violinist, released under Universal Records, showcases her extraordinary collaborations and contributions to music.

As a testament to her influence, she is recognized as an Apollo Legend and has received honors from the White House, along with the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor. Miri Ben-Ari's groundbreaking performance at the NBA Finals not only establishes her legacy but also amplifies the importance of musical innovation in modern sporting events. This historic halftime show is set to resonate as a landmark achievement in the chronicles of entertainment and sports history.

For those interested in witnessing this historic performance, you can watch Miri Ben-Ari’s NBA Finals halftime show here.

In a constantly evolving cultural landscape, Ben-Ari’s pioneering efforts inspire upcoming artists to break new ground and push the boundaries of artistic expression, making moments like these monumental both on and off the court.