Oklahoma City-based Continental Resources is putting its name on the new home of the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA.
The Thunder and the oil company founded by Harold Hamm announced a 15-year name rights partnership for the new arena that is expected to open in 2028 at the site of the former Cox Convention Center which was demolished to make way for the new arena.
“Continental could not be more proud to partner with the Thunder in this next chapter. The Thunder is a world-class organization that represents the very best of Oklahoma,” Harold Hamm, founder & chairman emeritus of Continental Resources, said in a news release.
“When the Thunder came to Oklahoma City, they changed the way this state saw itself. They proved that even a small market can dream big, compete with anyone, and win with heart and grit. That same spirit has defined Continental from the beginning. We’re proud to call Oklahoma home.”
Continental’s CEO, Doug Lawler, called it an important partnership.
“It is so exciting. It is the ultimate partnership. It’s a combination of strength and service, community ownership, and commitment. It’s a very, very powerful combination, one that we are super excited about.”
Just how much did it cost Continental to get the naming rights? The amount was not disclosed in Tuesday’s announcement.
“Continental Coliseum” will be the fourth name of the NBA arena that is home to the Thunder. The first was Ford Center and when its 15-year contract expired, it was called the Oklahoma City Arena. In 2021, it was renamed the Paycom Center. The announcement stated the new name will take immediate effect and will be reflected on current construction fencing around the site in the downtown area of the city. The new name will also be used in future exterior and interior signage throughout the building.
Thunder reflects on share commitment
“We’re grateful to expand our partnership with Continental Resources and for their belief in our organization and in the future of Oklahoma City,” said Clayton I. Bennett, chairman of the Oklahoma City Thunder.
“We really wanted an Oklahoma partner for this transitional moment in the history of our city. We are proud to align with an organization that embodies the resilience, ambition, and spirit that define our state. As a company founded and built in Oklahoma, Continental shares our deep roots and enduring commitment to this state. Continental Coliseum will stand as a lasting symbol of that shared commitment — a place where our fans, our city, and our state unite to create unforgettable moments for generations.”
New Arena Design and Opening Timeline
Preliminary conceptual designs for Oklahoma City’s new arena were unveiled by Mayor David Holt during his 2025 State of the City address. Designed by MANICA Architecture, the arena promises to be one-of-a-kind; unique and transformative for Oklahoma’s capital city and serve as a catalyst for the city’s ongoing economic and cultural renaissance. The design elevates the spirit of competition, celebrates community values, and strengthens OKC’s local and global identity for years to come.
With a 360-degree glass curtain wall, the downtown arena will offer panoramic views from all interior concourses, and an elevated main entrance situated on a grand podium for an inspiring sense of welcome. The arena design prioritizes the athletic competition of basketball with optimized sight lines and a seating design allowing for an energetic, loud, and intimate experience. Continental Coliseum is scheduled to open late summer 2028, in time for the 2028-29 Thunder season.