Oklahoma City Thunder and Continental Resources Announce 15-Year Naming Rights Deal

The Oklahoma City Thunder and Continental Resources have jointly announced a landmark 15-year naming rights partnership for the city’s new state-of-the-art downtown arena, to be known as Continental Coliseum.

The venue, which was approved by Oklahoma City voters in December 2023, is currently undergoing site demolition and is targeted for a late summer 2028 opening. The Thunder will continue to play their home games at Paycom Center until the new facility is completed.

Emphasising the importance of partnering with a local entity for this transformative project, chairman of the Oklahoma City Thunder, Clayton I. Bennett, said:“We really wanted an Oklahoma partner for this transitional moment in the history of our city.”

“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,” Bennett said. 

Harold Hamm, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Continental Resources, added, “The Thunder is a world-class organization that represents the very best of Oklahoma. We’re proud to call Oklahoma home.”

Noting that the collaboration represents a natural progression of a long-standing relationship, VP of corporate partnerships for the Thunder, Will Syring, noted: “This expanded collaboration goes beyond naming rights; it represents a meaningful commitment to community investment.” 

The agreement grants the Oklahoma City-based energy giant immediate naming rights, which will be reflected on construction fencing and eventually across the interior and exterior of the MANICA Architecture-designed building.

Beyond the commercial branding, the elevated partnership includes a significant commitment to community investment, specifically focusing on advancing literacy and education initiatives across the state. Existing partnership assets, such as the “Continental Orb,” will also be integrated into the new coliseum’s identity.

Constructed by Flintco-Mortenson, the City-owned arena is designed to serve as a regional catalyst for economic and cultural growth, hosting top-tier touring artists, family shows, and national sporting events alongside NBA fixtures.

President and CEO of Continental Resources, Doug Lawler, concluded that the partnership is a “natural fit” based on shared values of innovation and a relentless commitment to performance.

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