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New $1 billion Oklahoma City arena will open with a new name with end of Paycom deal

The Oklahoma City Thunder, a prominent NBA franchise, are at a pivotal moment in their history as they plan for a new arena while navigating the end of their long-standing naming rights agreement with Paycom, a leading payroll and human resources technology company. The current arena, known as Paycom Center, has been the home of the Thunder since the team relocated to Oklahoma City from Seattle in 2008. However, with the naming rights contract set to expire in April 2025, the Thunder are preparing to transition into a new era, both in terms of their physical home and their corporate partnerships. This development comes as the city and the team are working on plans for a state-of-the-art arena, which is expected to redefine the fan experience and solidify the Thunder’s presence in Oklahoma City for decades to come.

The Paycom Center, located in downtown Oklahoma City, has been a central hub for basketball and entertainment in the region. It has hosted countless Thunder games, concerts, and other major events, becoming a recognizable landmark in the city. The naming rights deal with Paycom, which began in 2021 after the arena was previously known as Chesapeake Energy Arena, has been a significant partnership for both the company and the team. Paycom, an Oklahoma-based firm, has benefited from the visibility of having its name associated with a professional sports franchise and a major entertainment venue. For the Thunder, the partnership provided financial support and a connection to a local business with deep roots in the community. However, as the contract nears its conclusion, both parties appear to be moving in different directions, with no immediate indication of a renewal or extension of the agreement.

The expiration of the naming rights deal coincides with broader discussions about the future of the Thunder’s home venue. The current Paycom Center, while still functional, is considered outdated by modern NBA standards. Many teams across the league have either renovated their arenas or built new ones to incorporate advanced technology, enhanced fan amenities, and revenue-generating features such as premium seating and entertainment districts. The Thunder and city officials have recognized the need for a new facility to keep pace with these trends and to ensure the long-term viability of professional basketball in Oklahoma City. In December 2023, a significant step forward was taken when Oklahoma City voters approved a 1-cent sales tax extension to fund a new downtown arena, signaling strong public support for the project. This funding mechanism is expected to cover a substantial portion of the costs associated with designing and constructing the new venue, though exact figures and timelines remain under discussion.

The new arena project represents more than just a new building; it is a symbol of the city’s commitment to the Thunder and to maintaining a vibrant downtown area. City leaders and team officials have emphasized that the arena will be designed to serve as a multi-purpose facility, hosting not only basketball games but also concerts, conventions, and other community events. The goal is to create a space that drives economic activity, attracts tourism, and enhances the quality of life for residents. Preliminary plans suggest that the new arena will feature cutting-edge architecture, sustainable design elements, and a focus on fan engagement through interactive technology and improved sightlines. While specific details about the location and design are still being finalized, there is a clear intent to build a venue that reflects the growth and ambition of both the Thunder organization and Oklahoma City as a whole.

As the Thunder prepare to bid farewell to the Paycom Center name, the search for a new naming rights partner for the current arena—or potentially for the new arena—will be a critical task. Naming rights deals are a major source of revenue for sports franchises, often spanning millions of dollars over multiple years. These agreements also provide companies with significant branding opportunities, as the arena’s name is mentioned in media coverage, advertisements, and everyday conversation. For the Thunder, finding the right partner will involve balancing financial considerations with the desire to align with a company that shares the team’s values and has a meaningful connection to the Oklahoma City community. While no potential suitors have been publicly identified at this stage, speculation abounds about whether a local business, a national corporation, or even a tech giant might step into the role. The outcome of these negotiations will likely have a lasting impact on the identity of the Thunder’s home, whether it remains in the current facility for a transitional period or moves directly into the new arena.

The end of the Paycom naming rights deal also raises questions about the future of the company’s relationship with the Thunder. Paycom has been a prominent supporter of the team, and its branding has been deeply integrated into the fan experience at the arena. From signage to digital displays, the company’s presence has been a constant reminder of its role in the community. While the expiration of the naming rights contract does not necessarily mean the end of all collaboration between Paycom and the Thunder, it does mark a shift in their partnership. Both sides have expressed mutual respect and gratitude for the years of working together, with statements indicating that the decision to part ways on the naming rights front is a business move rather than a reflection of any underlying tension. There remains the possibility of future sponsorships or other forms of cooperation, though the specifics of any such arrangements are yet to be determined.

For Thunder fans, the changes on the horizon are both exciting and bittersweet. The Paycom Center, under its various names over the years, has been the backdrop for some of the most memorable moments in the team’s history. From thrilling playoff runs to the emergence of superstar players, the arena holds a special place in the hearts of the fanbase. The prospect of moving to a new venue, while promising in terms of modern amenities and improved experiences, also means leaving behind a space filled with nostalgia. Fans are eager to see how the new arena will honor the team’s legacy while forging a new chapter in Oklahoma City’s sports culture. Community engagement will likely play a key role in the planning process, as the Thunder and city officials seek input on everything from design features to the overall vision for the project.

Beyond the arena itself, the Thunder’s future is tied to broader developments in the NBA landscape. The league continues to evolve, with an emphasis on innovation, global outreach, and fan accessibility. A new arena in Oklahoma City will position the Thunder to take full advantage of these trends, offering a venue that can host international events, showcase emerging technologies, and provide a world-class experience for visitors. Additionally, the team’s on-court performance remains a critical factor in sustaining fan enthusiasm and attracting corporate partners. With a talented young roster and a strong organizational foundation, the Thunder are well-poised to build on their recent successes and make the transition to a new home a triumphant one.

In the meantime, the final months of the Paycom Center naming rights deal will serve as a period of reflection and anticipation. The Thunder will continue to play their home games in the familiar surroundings of the current arena, giving fans one last chance to create memories under the existing banner. At the same time, behind-the-scenes efforts to secure a new naming rights partner and advance the new arena project will intensify. For Oklahoma City, this is a moment of transformation—a chance to reimagine what a sports and entertainment venue can be while reinforcing the bond between the city and its beloved NBA team. As the Thunder move forward, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of a community that has embraced them as more than just a basketball team, but as a vital part of its identity.

In conclusion, the end of the Paycom naming rights contract and the planning for a new arena mark a significant turning point for the Oklahoma City Thunder. These developments reflect the team’s growth, the city’s ambition, and the ever-changing dynamics of professional sports. While challenges lie ahead in terms of financing, design, and partnerships, the foundation of public support and organizational commitment provides a strong basis for success. The Thunder’s journey from the Paycom Center to a new home will be closely watched by fans, businesses, and civic leaders alike, as it promises to shape the future of basketball in Oklahoma City for generations to come.

Read the Full The Oklahoman Article at:
[ https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/2025/07/14/okc-thunder-new-nba-arena-paycom-naming-rights-contract-ended/85199319007/ ]