Former OKC Mayor Honors Thunder Division Title on Bombing Anniversary

Ron Norick, who led the city during the 1995 tragedy, presented the Northwest Division Champions trophy to Jaylin Williams.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 8:53pm

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An abstract expressionist painting in neon colors, with rapid brushstrokes capturing the raw energy and emotion of a basketball celebration, the players' forms dissolving into unrecognizable splatters of paint.The Thunder's division title celebration brings a vibrant burst of energy and community pride to Oklahoma City on the somber anniversary of the 1995 bombing.Oklahoma City Today

On Sunday, former Oklahoma City Mayor Ron Norick, who led the city during the April 19, 1995 bombing, made a special presentation during the Thunder-Suns game that fell on the anniversary of the tragic day. Norick presented the 2025-26 Northwest Division Champions trophy to Thunder star Jaylin Williams, and a banner highlighting the division win was raised during the ceremony.

Why it matters

The Thunder's division title and Norick's appearance on the anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing holds deep significance for the community, as the team and city continue to heal and move forward from that tragic event 31 years ago.

The details

Norick, who served as mayor of Oklahoma City from 1988 to 2003, led the city through the aftermath of the 1995 bombing that killed 168 people. His presence at Sunday's game to honor the Thunder's division championship was an emotional moment that brought together the team's success and the city's resilience.

  • The Thunder-Suns game took place on April 19, 2026, the anniversary of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing.
  • Norick presented the 2025-26 Northwest Division Champions trophy to Jaylin Williams during the game.

The players

Ron Norick

The former mayor of Oklahoma City who led the city during the 1995 bombing and made the trophy presentation at Sunday's Thunder game.

Jaylin Williams

The star player for the Oklahoma City Thunder who received the Northwest Division Champions trophy from Norick.

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What they’re saying

“It was an honor to be here today to celebrate the Thunder's division title, especially on this solemn anniversary. The city has come so far, and this team continues to inspire us all.”

— Ron Norick, Former Mayor of Oklahoma City

What’s next

The Thunder will host the first round of the NBA playoffs, with Game 1 scheduled for this Saturday, April 26.

The takeaway

The Thunder's division championship and Norick's appearance on the bombing anniversary demonstrate the resilience and civic pride of Oklahoma City, as the community continues to heal and find inspiration in the success of its beloved basketball team.