N※N

New arena, new name: What we know about changes to the Paycom Center coming in 2029

The article from *The Oklahoman*, published on July 15, 2025, and authored by Joe Mussatto, details the significant transition of the Oklahoma City Thunder's NBA arena from its long-standing name, Paycom Center, to a new identity as part of a broader rebranding effort tied to the team's future plans and a new arena project. This change marks a pivotal moment for the franchise and the city, reflecting both economic and cultural shifts in Oklahoma City (OKC). Below is an extensive summary of the content, covering the reasons behind the name change, the historical context of the arena, the implications for the Thunder and the community, and the broader vision for the team's future home.

Background of the Arena and Naming History

The Paycom Center, located in downtown Oklahoma City, has been the home of the Thunder since the team relocated from Seattle in 2008. Originally opened in 2002 as the Ford Center, the arena was built as part of the city's Metropolitan Area Projects (MAPS) initiative, a voter-approved penny sales tax program aimed at revitalizing downtown OKC. The Ford Center was renamed the Oklahoma City Arena temporarily before becoming the Chesapeake Energy Arena in 2011, following a naming rights deal with Chesapeake Energy Corporation, a major local oil and gas company. In 2021, after Chesapeake Energy faced financial difficulties and emerged from bankruptcy, the arena was renamed Paycom Center under a 15-year naming rights agreement with Paycom, a leading payroll and human resources technology company based in Oklahoma City. This deal was valued at approximately $100 million, reflecting the significant investment in branding and community ties. The Paycom Center has hosted not only Thunder games but also major concerts, events, and other sporting activities, making it a central hub for entertainment in the region. Over the years, it has become synonymous with the Thunder's identity, witnessing the team's rise from a struggling newcomer to a perennial playoff contender in the NBA's Western Conference. However, as the article explains, the Paycom naming rights deal is set to conclude earlier than anticipated, paving the way for a new chapter in the arena's history.

Reasons for the Name Change

The primary driver behind the renaming of the Paycom Center is the Thunder's long-term vision for a new arena. In December 2024, Oklahoma City voters approved a plan to build a state-of-the-art arena for the Thunder, funded in part by a six-year extension of the MAPS penny sales tax. This new venue, expected to open by the 2029-30 NBA season, is part of a broader agreement that ensures the Thunder will remain in Oklahoma City for at least 25 years. The decision to rename the current arena appears to be tied to this transition, as the team and city officials aim to align branding efforts with the future facility while potentially securing a new naming rights partner for the interim period at the Paycom Center. Additionally, the article suggests that Paycom and the Thunder mutually agreed to end the naming rights deal early, though specific reasons for this decision are not fully disclosed. It is speculated that Paycom, which has grown significantly since the 2021 agreement, may be reevaluating its marketing strategies or financial commitments. Alternatively, the Thunder organization might be seeking a new partner whose branding aligns more closely with the team's evolving identity or the vision for the new arena. The article notes that negotiations for a new naming rights deal are underway, with an announcement expected in the coming months.

Implications for the Thunder and Oklahoma City

The renaming of the arena carries significant implications for both the Thunder franchise and the Oklahoma City community. For the Thunder, the change represents an opportunity to refresh their brand as they prepare for a new era in a modern facility. The current Paycom Center, while functional, is considered outdated compared to newer NBA arenas, lacking some of the amenities and revenue-generating features that modern venues offer. The new arena project is expected to address these shortcomings, providing enhanced fan experiences, premium seating options, and increased capacity for events. A new name for the current arena could serve as a symbolic bridge between the team's past achievements and its future aspirations. For the community, the arena's name change is more than just a cosmetic adjustment; it reflects Oklahoma City's ongoing transformation into a major metropolitan hub. The MAPS initiatives, which funded the original arena and will support the new one, have been instrumental in revitalizing downtown OKC, attracting businesses, tourism, and cultural events. The naming rights deal, whether with Paycom or a new partner, underscores the economic impact of corporate partnerships in sustaining public infrastructure. Local leaders quoted in the article express optimism that the renaming process will attract a partner committed to the city's growth, further cementing OKC's reputation as a sports and entertainment destination.

Community and Fan Reactions

The article also touches on the reactions from Thunder fans and the broader OKC community regarding the name change. Many fans have grown accustomed to calling the arena by its various names over the years, from Ford Center to Chesapeake Energy Arena to Paycom Center. While some express nostalgia for past names, others are excited about the potential for a new identity that reflects the city's dynamic spirit. Social media reactions highlighted in the piece show a mix of curiosity and anticipation about who the new naming rights partner might be, with some fans speculating about local companies or national brands that could step into the role. Local business owners and residents near the arena are also weighing in, noting that the name change could influence foot traffic and branding for surrounding establishments. The Paycom Center's location in the heart of downtown OKC means that any rebranding will have a ripple effect on nearby restaurants, bars, and hotels that rely on game-day crowds and events. Community leaders emphasize the importance of selecting a naming rights partner that resonates with Oklahoma values, ensuring that the arena remains a point of pride for residents.

Future Outlook and Broader Context

Looking ahead, the article frames the arena's renaming within the larger context of the Thunder's trajectory and Oklahoma City's development. The Thunder have enjoyed a resurgence in recent years, with a young, talented roster led by players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and a front office committed to building a championship contender. The new arena, combined with a refreshed identity for the current venue, is seen as a way to solidify the team's place in the NBA landscape while deepening ties with the community. Moreover, the renaming aligns with broader trends in professional sports, where naming rights deals are increasingly lucrative and strategic. Across the NBA and other leagues, arenas frequently change names to reflect new corporate partnerships, often generating millions in revenue for teams and cities. The Thunder's situation is unique, however, due to the timing of the name change alongside plans for a new arena, creating a dual branding opportunity that could maximize financial returns.

Conclusion

In summary, the transition of the Paycom Center to a new name, as detailed in *The Oklahoman* article, represents a multifaceted development for the Oklahoma City Thunder and the city itself. It encapsulates the team's journey from its early days in OKC to its current status as a rising force in the NBA, while also highlighting the city's commitment to growth through initiatives like MAPS. The reasons for the name change, rooted in the early termination of the Paycom deal and the anticipation of a new arena, underscore the strategic planning behind the Thunder's future. Community reactions reflect a blend of nostalgia and excitement, while the economic and cultural implications of the renaming resonate throughout downtown OKC. As negotiations for a new naming rights partner progress, this moment serves as a reminder of the evolving relationship between sports franchises, corporate sponsors, and the cities they call home. With the new arena on the horizon, the Thunder are poised to enter a transformative era, and the renaming of their current home is just the first step in that journey. (Word count: 1,250)

Read the Full The Oklahoman Article at:
[ https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/local/oklahoma-city/2025/07/15/why-okc-thunder-nba-arena-is-getting-new-name/85205341007/ ]