Being built right next to Paycom Center, we now know the name of the new arena that the Oklahoma City Thunder will soon call their new NBA home. It was announced on Tuesday that it will be called the Continental Coliseum. The naming rights deal will span 15 years. The arena will open in the 2028-29 season.

Continental Resources has its headquarters located in Oklahoma City. It is the largest privately held oil and natural gas producer in the world. Thunder owner Clay Bennett released a couple of statements about the announcement. Alongside other important figures in the arena’s naming rights.

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“We’re grateful to expand our partnership with Continental Resources and for their belief in our organization and in the future of Oklahoma City,” Bennett said. “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. 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.”

Over the last handful of years, the Thunder’s new NBA home has been a topic. The city voted to approve a new arena in Dec. 2023. Since then, you’ve slowly seen the multi-year process take place. Right now, we’re at the construction phase of things.

Once the Continental Coliseum opens up, the Thunder will start a 25-year lease to remain in OKC through at least 2053. It was critical to keep the franchise around for the long haul, considering Paycom Center maxed out its potential as an NBA arena.

Until then, the Thunder will remain at Paycom Center. Beyond this season, they have two more seasons left in their current gym. They won the Larry O’Brien trophy there in the 2025 NBA Finals. They could win more before they leave the building for good in a couple of years.

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“Continental Coliseum is so unique and evokes a sense of pride in the strength and resilience of our community,” Bennett said. “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.”

This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: OKC Thunder’s new arena name revealed as ‘Continental Coliseum’