Thunder Won't Visit White House During D.C. Trip

Reigning NBA champions cite 'timing' as reason for skipping traditional White House celebration.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 3:18am

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The Oklahoma City Thunder, the reigning NBA champions, will not visit the White House during their upcoming road trip to Washington, D.C. this weekend. A team spokesperson cited 'timing' as the reason for not scheduling the traditional White House celebration for the 2025 title winners.

Why it matters

Visiting the White House has long been a custom for championship-winning professional sports teams, but in recent years some teams have declined the invitation, often citing political differences. The Thunder's decision continues this trend and raises questions about the future of this tradition.

The details

The Thunder and the White House had discussions about a celebration, but the 'timing just didn't work out,' according to the team's statement. The Thunder are scheduled to play the Washington Wizards on Saturday. Visiting the White House after winning a title has been common practice since the Boston Celtics went in 1963, but some teams like the Golden State Warriors have opted out in recent years.

  • The Thunder play the Washington Wizards on Saturday, March 22, 2026.

The players

Oklahoma City Thunder

The reigning NBA champions for the 2025 season.

White House

The official residence and workplace of the President of the United States.

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What they’re saying

“We have been in touch with the White House, and we are appreciative and grateful for the communication we have had, but the timing just didn't work out.”

— Oklahoma City Thunder, Team Spokesperson

The takeaway

The Thunder's decision to skip the traditional White House visit highlights the ongoing debate over whether championship-winning teams should continue this long-standing custom, especially when political differences may be a factor.