The Oklahoma City Thunder have just revealed that their brand new state-of-the-art stadium will be named the ‘Continental Coliseum.’
The NBA’s reigning champions, who are worth a reported $4.3 billion, had previously announced plans for a brand new $900 million arena in downtown Oklahoma City, which is set to open in 2028, back in 2025.
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OKC have announced that they are entering a 15-year naming rights partnership for their new arena set to be named ‘Continental Coliseum’
Now, in partnership with Continental Resources, a privately held oil and natural gas producer headquartered in Oklahoma City, the Thunder have announced a 15-year naming rights partnership for the arena which has yet to have broken ground.
“We’re grateful to expand our partnership with Continental Resources and for their belief in our organization and in the future of Oklahoma City,” OKC chairman Clayton I. Bennett said in a team statement on Tuesday.
“We really wanted an Oklahoma partner for this transitional moment in the history of our city. We are proud to align with an organization that embodies the resilience, ambition, and spirit that define our state.
“As a company founded and built in Oklahoma, Continental shares our deep roots and enduring commitment to this state.
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“Continental Coliseum will stand as a lasting symbol of that shared commitment — a place where our fans, our city, and our state unite to create unforgettable moments for generations.”
According to the team’s statement, the new name comes into effect immediately.
“This partnership builds on a strong, long-standing relationship rooted in shared values and a shared vision for Oklahoma City,” Will Syring, vice president of Corporate Partnerships for the Thunder, said.
“What we’ve accomplished together to date made this a natural next step.
“This expanded collaboration goes beyond naming rights; it represents a meaningful commitment to community investment, including support for literacy initiatives that will benefit Oklahomans across our state.”
“As a company founded and built in Oklahoma, Continental shares the Thunder’s deep commitment to the community,” the team further added in a statement on X (formerly Twitter).
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They have partnered with Continental Resources, which is headquartered in Oklahoma City
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The arena is set to cost $900 million and is tipped to open its doors in 2028
“Together we are committed to OKC, focused on the future, and excited to see Continental Coliseum come to life!”
Fans loving the new name
With the alliteration of the Continental Coliseum also evoking that it will be an arena that opposing teams may fear coming into, the name has been a hit among the Thunder faithful.
“Yea this is the best arena name in sports,” one fan commented on X.
“U guys cooked with this one,” another fan posted.
“This arena is EPIC!,” a third wrote while a fourth added, “It looks like there’s about to be a tornado up there, boys.”
The Thunder’s new arena will reportedly be funded 85 percent by local taxpayers – a small price to pay for one of the best teams in the modern NBA.
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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander spearheaded the Thunder and won Finals MVPCredit: Getty
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OKC’s big 3 is locked in with the team for the long-termCredit: Getty
A team which boasts superstars including reigning NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren – who has clashed with superstar Victor Wembanyama in the past – and Jalen Williams.
With their big three, the Thunder are well on course to try and defend their title, currently sitting atop the Western Conference standings with just 10 games of the 2025-26 regular season remaining.
“Continental could not be more proud to partner with the Thunder in this next chapter,” founder & chairman emeritus of Continental Resources, Harold Hamm stated.
“The Thunder is a world-class organization that represents the very best of Oklahoma. When the Thunder came to Oklahoma City, they changed the way this state saw itself.
“They proved that even a small market can dream big, compete with anyone, and win with heart and grit. That same spirit has defined Continental from the beginning. We’re proud to call Oklahoma home.”
“Continental Coliseum is so unique and evokes a sense of pride in the strength and resilience of our community,” Bennett added to his own statement.
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“The name represents the spirit of competition and excellence. We’re thrilled for the Thunder, Continental Resources, the city, and every citizen who voted yes for the future of Oklahoma City.”
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