Oklahoma City unveils new arena for champion Thunder

Fans received a first-hand look at the Oklahoma City Thunder’s new arena, slated to open in 2028. After watching the Thunder win its first championship in franchise history, Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt and Architect David Manica presented the first model of the $900 million arena, accompanied by photos and virtual videos of the exterior. The Paycom Center, formerly known by other names over the years, has been the Thunder’s home since 2008.

After relocating from Seattle, Oklahoma City transitioned from the Sonics, with the arena first opening in 2002. Thunder owner Clay Bennett released the following statement on the preliminary unveiling, per Thunder’s X, formerly Twitter.

“The journey to build a unique and transformative downtown landmark has taken a significant step forward with the unveiling of this preliminary conceptual design,” Bennett said. “We are incredibly grateful to Mayor Holt for his leadership and to David Manica and his team, who have done a remarkable job capturing our vision for an arena that elevates the spirit of competition, celebrates the values of our community, and strengthens Oklahoma City’s local and global identity.”

With a new budget fitting for a new NBA champion Thunder team, Mayor Holt is thrilled to unveil a new arena amidst an exciting new era of Thunder basketball.

“With this budget, we have the ability to do something special that raises the aesthetic bar for the city and makes an architectural statement,” Holt said. “And today, we’re here to make that statement.”