OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLA. (KOKH) — The 2025 NBA World Champions gave back to their local community on Saturday, when the Oklahoma City Thunder teamed up with Love’s Travel Stops to welcome 40 youth YMCA athletes to participate in their official Youth Media Day.
The event saw Thunder players Ajay Mitchell and Brooks Barnhizer coach the young hoopers in a series of basketball scrimmages at the Mitch Park YMCA in Edmond. They learned how to play with confidence and use teamwork while Rumble the Bison, the Thunder Girls and Storm Chasers cheered them on courtside all day long.
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Ajay Mitchell (left) and shooting guard Brooks Barnhizer (right) coaching YMCA youth athletes from the sideline during a scrimmage match at theLove’s Youth Media Day. (Courtesy: Oklahoma City Thunder Public Relations)
Barnhizer had a blast coaching the youth athletes, believing that he was able to truly connect with the city and its people.
“It was really cool, really cool. I think just to get out here, because I’m new in the community,” said Barnhizer.
Mitchell loved coaching the kids because he wanted them to feel seen and heard, like they were a part of the team and the NBA family.
Every one of them had the opportunity to do photoshoots, mock interviews and skill drills, before they went home with their very own drawstring bag filled with Thunder swag.
