With the sound of drumming, cheers and basketballs hitting fresh pavement, the Oklahoma City Thunder unveiled a newly renovated basketball court Saturday morning at Crystal Beach Park, breathing new life into a space long cherished by local athletes.

The basketball court originally dedicated in 2016 was renovated with new paint, graphics and backboards and part of a multi-year partnership between the Thunder and OG&E to revitalize 31 courts statewide.

“We’ve seen the power of sports to transform lives,” said Erin Oldfield, vice president of community engagement for the Thunder Community Foundation. “This court had seen a lot of wear, and we’re just thrilled to bring it back to life for the community to enjoy.”

The event was emceed by Thunder personality Malcolm Tubbs, who kept the energy high as Thunder entertainers, local officials and families gathered for the celebration.

Woodward Mayor Tom Fisher welcomed the Thunder team and praised the organization’s investment in local recreation.

“Unless it’s below zero, raining or snowing, there are usually kids out here playing — grade school to high school. It’s an excellent investment,” he said.

Fisher also gave a shoutout to one of the Thunder Girls in attendance — Woodward native Zoe Taylor.

“The Thunder organization has 15 Thunder Girls, and one of them is from Woodward — Zoe Taylor,” he said with a smile as the crowd cheered. “I told her I coached her dad when he was a freshman. She couldn’t believe it.”

The celebration included appearances by Thunder Girls, Rumble the Bison, Thunder Drummers, DJ Emcee One and a youth basketball skills session. Community leaders and representatives from OG&E also participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The event concluded with a high-energy countdown and ceremonial ribbon snip as the crowd cheered and the upgraded court was officially opened for play.

“It’s truly exciting to have a partnership with the Thunder organization,” City Manager Shaun Barnett said. “The Thunder court has been in constant use since its installation, and we are thrilled about its recent update, ensuring it will continue to serve our community for many years to come.”