OKC Thunder Announce Continental Coliseum as Name for New Arena Opening in 2028

Photo Courtesy of MANICA Architecture

A new era of Oklahoma City Thunder basketball officially has a name. The basketball team has announced that its upcoming NBA arena will be called Continental Coliseum, following a long-term naming rights agreement with Continental Resources. The deal signals a major step forward for both the team and the city as construction continues on the state-of-the-art venue set to replace Paycom Center.

The 15-year naming rights agreement between the Thunder and Continental Resources will begin with the 2028–29 NBA season, aligning with the anticipated opening of the new arena. The partnership ensures that Continental Coliseum will be at the center of Oklahoma City’s sports and entertainment landscape for well over a decade.

Currently under construction, Continental Coliseum will serve as the future home of the Oklahoma City Thunder, offering a modern upgrade from the 24-year-old  Paycom Center. The new arena project is a key piece of the city’s long-term vision to maintain its status as a premier NBA market while enhancing the fan experience.

Though specific design features are still emerging, the venue is expected to include cutting-edge amenities, stadium seating options, expanded concourses, and enhanced technology throughout. These improvements aim to elevate the NBA game-day experience in Oklahoma City, making it more competitive with newer arenas across the league.

The development of Continental Coliseum is expected to bring significant economic benefits to downtown Oklahoma City. Large-scale arena projects often act as catalysts for entertainment districts, restaurants, hotels, and retail growth, and city leaders anticipate similar results surrounding the new Thunder arena.

The Paycom Center, which has been home to the Thunder since the team relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008, will eventually be replaced once the new arena opens in 2028. While the building has hosted countless memorable moments in Thunder history, the move to Continental Coliseum represents a necessary evolution as the NBA continues to modernize its facilities.

With construction already underway, anticipation is building for the debut of Continental Coliseum in 2028. The arena will not only host Oklahoma City Thunder games but is also expected to attract concerts, major sporting events, and national tours, further positioning Oklahoma City as a top-tier destination for live entertainment.

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