NBA Thunder And Continental Resources Announce 15-Year Naming Rights Agreement For New OKC Arena

The Oklahoma City Thunder and Continental Resources announced a 15-year naming rights partnership for Continental Coliseum, the new state-of-the-art arena underway in downtown Oklahoma City.

Demolition of the site is nearing completion, and the construction team will begin mobilizing soon. Continental Coliseum is targeted to open in late summer 2028, ushering in a new era for sports and entertainment in the city. The Thunder will continue to play at across the street at Paycom Center until the new venue opens.

“We’re grateful to expand our partnership with Continental Resources and for their belief in our organization and in the future of Oklahoma City,” stated Clayton I. Bennett, chairman of the Oklahoma City Thunder in the announcement. “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.”

Headquartered in Oklahoma City, Continental Resources is the largest privately held oil and natural gas producer in the world.

“As a company founded and built in Oklahoma, Continental shares our deep roots and enduring commitment to this state,” continued Bennett. “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.”

The new arena name takes effect immediately and will be reflected on current construction fencing, future exterior and interior venue signage throughout the building. The partnership includes expanded community initiatives focused on advancing literacy and education across Oklahoma. Many of Continental’s existing partnership assets, including the Continental Orb, will continue as well.

“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,” said Harold Hamm, founder & chairman emeritus of Continental Resources. “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.”

Designed by MANICA Architecture and built by Flintco-Mortenson, Continental Coliseum is designed to hold 18,000 spectators and will be used to host everything from basketball, touring artists and family shows to national sporting events.

“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,” stated Doug Lawler, president and CEO of Continental Resources. “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.”

In December 2023, Oklahoma City voters approved construction of the new, City-owned arena. Under the terms of the Thunder’s arena agreement with the City, the team had the ability to negotiate a naming rights agreement. The financial details of the deal were not released.