Thunder centers transformed a local scrimmage into a pro experience, mentoring youth athletes through drills and media simulations while reinforcing the franchise’s deep commitment to Oklahoma community service.
There were some YMCA boys and girls basketball teams in Oklahoma who had a couple of special guest coaches during their scrimmages this weekend.
On Saturday, 40 YMCA Thunder Basketball League athletes from all over the state had the chance to see what it's like to live a day in the life of a pro basketball player during Youth Media Day. The event was made possible by Love's Travel Stops and took place at Mitch Park YMCA in Edmond, Oklahoma.
And the coaches in question were Oklahoma City Thunder players Isaiah Hartenstein and Thomas Sorber. The two OKC centers were joined in the coaching ranks by Thunder Youth Basketball coaches. Rumble the Bison, the Thunder Girls and the Storm Chasers also helped in cheering on the teams.
"Great interactions. People were really hyped, happy to be here," Hartenstein said of the Youth Media Day. "They're excited to compete and that was something cool to see. How engaged they were. How excited they were to come out and play basketball. It was really cool."
Not only did the kids get a chance to hoop with NBA players, but they also took part in photoshoots, mock interviews and skills drills. The mission was to teach the children life skills that could be applied both on and off the court.
Hartenstein is a familiar face in the OKC community. The Thunder's starting center was given the NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award during the 2025 offseason for his philanthropy. His Hartenstein Foundation has regularly contributed to numerous nonprofit and charitable organizations since the moment he arrived in Oklahoma City.
"It's really important. I think we wouldn't be in the situation that we are in to help our families without the community," Hartenstein said of giving back to the community. "Especially here in OKC, it's really important to always give back. I think in general, that's how the people here are. They're always there to give back. So I think that's the least that we can do. I always have a lot of joy coming back and seeing the kids. Being around the community a lot, seeing some of the same kids over and over again. I think that's how you really make a difference, just being consistent."
The three way partnership between the YMCA, Loves Travel Stops and the Oklahoma City Thunder has reached close to 90,000 kids in over 120 communities all over the state.
