The Oklahoma City Thunder officially unveiled a major piece of their future on Tuesday, announcing that their new downtown arena will be named Continental Coliseum as part of a 15 year naming rights partnership with Continental Resources. The state of the art venue is scheduled to open in late summer 2028, with groundbreaking set for Thursday morning as the project begins to take shape in Oklahoma City.
Once finished, Continental Coliseum will serve as the new home of the Thunder, who will continue to play at Paycom Center until the new arena opens.
Thunder chairman Clay Bennett emphasized the significance of the partnership and what it represents for the city and organization.
“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.”
Continental Resources founder Harold Hamm echoed those sentiments, pointing to the Thunder’s impact on the state since arriving in Oklahoma City.
“Continental could not be more proud to partner with the Thunder in this next chapter. The Thunder is a world-class organization that represents the very best of Oklahoma,” Hamm said.
“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.”
The naming rights agreement goes beyond the arena itself. The Continental Coliseum branding will immediately appear on construction fencing and will be integrated throughout the venue once completed. The expanded partnership will also include community initiatives, particularly focused on literacy and education across Oklahoma.
“This partnership builds on a strong, long-standing relationship rooted in shared values and a shared vision for Oklahoma City,” said Will Syring, vice president of Corporate Partnerships for the Thunder.
“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.”
Continental Resources CEO Doug Lawler highlighted the alignment between the two organizations as a driving force behind the deal.
“There are many parallels between the Thunder and Continental Resources - values like fierce competition, innovation, and a relentless commitment to performing at our very best,” Lawler said. “Both organizations are constantly exploring for the very best talent and creating environments where people can compete, innovate, and win. This elevated partnership with the Thunder is a natural fit, and we look forward to welcoming Oklahomans and visitors from around the world to the Continental Coliseum for many years to come.”
Beyond basketball, Continental Coliseum is expected to become a premier destination for live entertainment, hosting top touring artists, family shows, and major sporting events. The project stems from voter approval in December 2023 for a new city owned arena, designed by MANICA Architecture and built by Flintco-Mortenson.
Bennett believes the name itself reflects the identity of both the franchise and the state.
“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.”