Thunder Fans Rally at Scissortail Park Ahead of Playoff Opener

Excitement builds as Oklahoma City prepares to cheer on its NBA team in the postseason.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 7:22pm

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A vibrant, expressionist painting depicting the energy and excitement of a Thunder playoff rally, with fans cheering, the dance team performing, and the team mascot engaging the crowd, all rendered in a style of rapid, neon-colored brushstrokes.The electric atmosphere at Scissortail Park's Thunder playoff rally captures the community's unwavering support for its NBA team.Oklahoma City Today

Thousands of Thunder fans gathered at Scissortail Park in downtown Oklahoma City to show their support for the team ahead of Sunday's playoff opener. The festive rally featured live music, giveaways, and appearances by the Thunder Girls dance team and mascot Rumble the Bison, all building anticipation for the start of the NBA playoffs.

Why it matters

The Thunder's playoff run is a major source of community pride in Oklahoma City, which has embraced the team since its relocation from Seattle in 2008. These pre-game rallies help foster a sense of unity and excitement among the fanbase as the team aims to make a deep postseason push.

The details

Thousands of fans decked out in Thunder blue and orange filled Scissortail Park on Saturday evening, dancing to music from local bands and participating in games and activities organized by the team. The Thunder Girls performed routines to pump up the crowd, while Rumble the Bison, the team's popular mascot, entertained attendees. Free Thunder merchandise and other giveaways were distributed throughout the event.

  • The rally took place on Saturday, April 19, 2026, the day before the Thunder's first playoff game.
  • The Thunder are set to open their postseason on Sunday, April 20, 2026.

The players

Rumble the Bison

The official mascot of the Oklahoma City Thunder NBA team.

Thunder Girls

The dance team that performs at Oklahoma City Thunder home games and events.

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What they’re saying

“The energy here is unbelievable. You can feel the excitement building for the playoffs. These fans are the best in the NBA.”

— Sam Presti, Thunder General Manager

What’s next

The Thunder will host Game 1 of their first-round playoff series on Sunday, April 20, 2026.

The takeaway

Oklahoma City's passion for the Thunder is on full display, as the community rallies behind its NBA team ahead of the high-stakes postseason. This pre-game event is just the start of what promises to be an exciting playoff run for the Thunder and their devoted fanbase.