As tree leaves change colors, the Oklahoma City Thunder only have a few more weeks left to celebrate their NBA championship before the 2025-26 regular season starts. It’s been an eventful summer for everybody involved with the organization as they experience what it’s like to parade around with the Larry O’Brien trophy for the first time.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has capitalized on his impressive MVP-and-ring season with off-court opportunities. He was named the NBA 2K26 cover athlete, won a couple of ESPY awards, received Hamilton’s Key to the City and dropped his SHAI 001 “Butter” colorway to the public.

The rest of the Thunder have also had fun. Several players have returned to their hometowns with the Larry O’Brien trophy. The giant award has traveled from Arkansas to Germany.

Even the Thunder’s broadcast crew has received love. The Tulsa Drillers hosted a ‘Thunder Night’ on Friday, Sept. 12. Of course, free merchandise was handed out to fans who showed up. Before the Los Angeles Dodgers‘ Double-A affiliate took on the Arkansas Travelers, one of baseball’s best traditions involved a local — and recently national — celebrity.

Thunder reporter Nick Gallo threw out the ceremonial first pitch for the Drillers. It’s only fitting to see the notorious figure walk up to the mound and throw a nasty curveball that perfectly landed in the mascot’s glove.

As most know, Gallo became a household name. The Thunder’s postgame tradition over the years has gained national attention as they dominated the NBA. When OKC collected another ho-hum win, a group of players would surround the reporter and whoever he interviewed.

After the Thunder captured an NBA championship, the league is fully behind them as one of its top billing teams. They’re tied with the Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors and New York Knicks for most national television appearances at 34 this upcoming season.

With the Thunder set up to remain in the championship conversation for the foreseeable future, expect Gallo to continue to trend on social media for whatever shenanigans he endures.

🎆 Friday Night Fireworks & OKC Thunder Night! 🎆
Tulsa Drillers vs. Arkansas Travelers
🕕 Gates Open: 6:00 PM | ⚾ First Pitch: 7:00 PM

🕶️ Thunder Sunglasses Giveaway – first 1,500 fans!

Come out to see your favorite Thunder entertainers and take part in the Championship… pic.twitter.com/EcFsSZIEb9

— Tulsa Drillers (@TulsaDrillers) September 12, 2025