OKLAHOMA CITY – Beneath the bright lights of the Paycom Center, with thousands of basketball fans looking on, Muscogee (Creek) Nation citizen Susan Anderson stepped onto the court with a lifetime of music behind her and generations of family pride in her heart. On Nov. 4, her voice filled the arena as she performed the national anthem before an Oklahoma City Thunder game, honoring her Native heritage, her family, and the community that helped shape her.
Anderson, who is also a Choctaw citizen, has been singing throughout her life, performing at events across Oklahoma and Washington, D.C., including the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian. However, the Thunder game marked her largest audience yet.
The opportunity came through her involvement with the American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Oklahoma City, where she serves as an ambassador. Following conversations with Thunder representatives about Native American Heritage Month, Anderson submitted an audition video and was invited to perform.
For Anderson, the performance held special significance beyond the basketball court.
“I was proud to sing the National Anthem for our service members and veterans, as they deserve all of our love [and] respect,” Anderson said. “My father is 91 years old and a veteran, and I sing on his behalf as well.”
Anderson also dedicated the experience to her late mother, who was an avid Thunder fan, and celebrated having her two daughters, granddaughters, and extended family in attendance.
The performance was part of the Thunder’s Native American Heritage Night celebration, which also welcomed more than 2,000 students from Oklahoma’s tribal nations and featured keynote speaker DJ Marcus Anthony Guinn. Anderson reflected on the recognition of Native communities throughout the evening, including a color guard, dancers, tribal royalty, and elders.
“We are still here continuing ourselves through culture and traditions that welcome all to be a part of our community,” Anderson said.
She also expressed gratitude for the encouragement she received from Thunder fans, many of whom approached her to compliment her performance.
Now retired after a career that included work with the Indian Health Service, Anderson continues pursuing her passion for music and media, including projects with the National Native American Hall of Fame.
She hopes her experience encourages younger generations to pursue their own aspirations, regardless of the challenges they may face.
“It takes work, but dream and do it,” Anderson said. “You’ve got to put in the time and patience.”
