Patrick Mahomes, Caitlin Clark among stars expected at NBA Finals Game 7 as Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers battle for historic first-ever championship

Oklahoma City will be the center of the basketball universe this Sunday, as the 2025 NBA Finals return to Paycom Center for a winner-take-all Game 7. But while the Pacers and Thunder battle for their first-ever NBA title, the spectacle won’t be limited to the hardwood.

Over the past six games, the Finals have turned into a hotspot for celebrities, legends, and cross-sport royalty—and the buzz for Game 7 is already reaching Hollywood red carpet levels. Expect the biggest night in basketball to double as one of the most star-studded events of the year.

Celebrities, athletes, and legends who’ve shown up at the NBA Finals—and the star power expected at Game 7’s must-see showdown

This year’s Finals haven’t just delivered drama on the court—they’ve doubled as a star-studded affair, with celebrity sightings becoming part of the nightly routine. Among the names already spotted: rapper Lil Yachty, actor and former NFL player Terry Crews, and Pat McAfee, who’s as comfortable on the WWE mic as he is behind a sports desk.The roster continues with NBA personalities like Kendrick Perkins, Pacers legend Reggie Miller, and international Hall of Famer Dirk Nowitzki, all showing up to witness the two franchises’ historic runs. WNBA phenom Caitlin Clark made headlines with her courtside appearance, while ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith has been ever-present, fueling debate with every possession.

Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes, Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson, and Spanish racing sensation Alex Palou added some multi-sport flair to the proceedings. Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith was also seen soaking in the action.

And it’s not just about nostalgia. With this marking the first NBA Finals Game 7 since 2016—and only the 20th in league history—the event carries serious cultural weight. According to league records, the home team has won 15 of the previous 19 Game 7s, giving the Thunder a slight edge on paper.Still, it’s anyone’s game. And with legends from both franchises expected to attend, plus even more celebrities likely to drop in unannounced, the energy in the arena promises to be electric.Also Read: Caitlin Clark's boyfriend Connor McCaffery sends one-word reaction after Indiana Fever star's stunning returnWhen and where history happens matters—and on Sunday night in Oklahoma City, the “when” is now. With two hungry teams, one championship on the line, and the kind of courtside guest list that makes headlines in its own right, Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals is shaping up to be a true crossover event. Who wins is the big question. Who shows up to see it unfold? That might be just as fun to watch.