Oklahoma City Enters New Era with Thunder Arena and Olympics

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Clay Bennett, the chairman of the Oklahoma City Thunder basketball team, addressed a crowd gathered between the Paycom Center and the construction site of the new Continental Coliseum. Bennett, who typically avoids public speaking, expressed excitement about the city entering a new era with the opening of the Thunder's new arena and the upcoming 2032 Olympics, which Oklahoma City will host.

Why it matters

Oklahoma City has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades, transitioning from an oil-dependent economy to a more diversified one anchored by sports, entertainment, and tourism. The opening of the new Thunder arena and the city's selection to host the 2032 Olympics represent major milestones in this evolution, signaling Oklahoma City's emergence as a major player on the national and global stage.

The details

The Paycom Center, the new home of the Oklahoma City Thunder, is set to open this year, replacing the aging Chesapeake Energy Arena. Just down the street, construction is underway on the Continental Coliseum, a multi-purpose venue that will host events during the 2032 Olympics, which Oklahoma City was selected to host in 2023.

• The Paycom Center is scheduled to open in 2026.
• Oklahoma City was selected to host the 2032 Olympics in 2023.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Continental Coliseum is expected to be completed in 2030, in time for the 2032 Olympics. The city will continue to make infrastructure and development investments to prepare for the influx of visitors and global attention.