OKLAHOMA CITY –
A pivotal year for OKC
Holt is expected to focus on several transformative projects, including preparations for the 2028 Summer Olympics and construction of the new $900 million downtown arena that will be home to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The address comes during a pivotal moment for the city as leaders move forward with large-scale infrastructure and economic development plans.
OKC Mayor David Holt
RELATED: Oklahoma City Voters Approve Taxpayer Dollars To Fund New Arena, Keep OKC Thunder
Downtown arena progress
Voters approved a tax package in December 2023 to fund the new arena, ensuring the Thunder remain in Oklahoma City through 2053. The venue will be built on the site of the former Cox Convention Center and is scheduled for completion in 2028.
MANICA Architecture and TVS are designing the arena, with Flintco and Mortenson serving as construction partners. The project will include an emphasis on connectivity.
RELATED: Oklahoma City Council Approves Arena Development Plan In 7-2 Vote
Thunder’s rise in OKC
The Oklahoma City Thunder’s journey from a relocated franchise to NBA champions mirrors Oklahoma City’s own transformation into a big-league city. The team arrived in 2008 after a lease dispute in Seattle led to the sale and relocation of the SuperSonics to Oklahoma City. Backed by a local ownership group, the move was initially met with skepticism nationwide, but energized the community.
In just their second season, the Thunder made the playoffs and became a consistent postseason presence throughout the 2010s. The team reached the NBA Finals in 2012 and helped redefine Oklahoma City’s national reputation.
Following roster turnover and rebuilding seasons, the Thunder surged back into contention in the early 2020s, culminating in a historic championship run in 2025. The title was the franchise’s first for the city.
City officials credited fans’ faith in the Thunder’s abilities following their victory over the Indiana Pacers at the Paycom Center. The win secured the Thunder’s place not only in NBA history but also in the identity of Oklahoma City.
RELATED: OKC Thunder’s emotional win highlights long journey to NBA Title
Olympic spotlight on OKC
Mayor Holt will also provide updates on Oklahoma City’s role in the 2028 Olympics. Riversport OKC and Devon Park are set to host canoe slalom and softball events, respectively, marking the first time Olympic competitions will take place in Oklahoma.
The city’s whitewater and softball venues were selected for their world-class quality and ability to meet international standards without new construction. News 9’s Alex Cameron broke the story in June of 2024.
RELATED: 2028 Olympic Games To Be Played In Oklahoma
Event details
The State of the City luncheon is at full capacity. Those interested in being added to the waitlist can email [email protected] or call 405-297-8921, or visit the OKC Chamber of Commerce’s official website.
Oklahoma To Host 2028 Olympics Events
- OKC Proposes $3.6 Million Transfer For Riversport Improvements Ahead Of 2028 Olympics
- Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt On Sen. Jim Inhofe, 2028 Olympics
- Oklahoma City Mayor Preparing For 2028 Olympics Following Return From Paris Games
- Q&A: Oklahoma City gears up for 2028 Olympics
- Former Senator On 2028 Olympics Events In Oklahoma City
OKC Approves New Thunder Arena
- Oklahoma City Voters Approve Taxpayer Dollars To Fund New Arena, Keep OKC Thunder
- Oklahoma City Council passes new Thunder arena agreements
- Thunder lock in long-term future in Oklahoma City with new arena agreement
- Oklahoma City Council Approves Arena Development Plan In 7-2 Vote
Arena Development:
- Downtown OKC Restaurant Owner Talks Potential Impact Of New Arena
- New Developments In OKC: Possible Arena Location, Airport Travel Grows
- Oklahoma City Council Approves Agreement With Consulting Firm For New Arena
- Oklahoma City Council Hires Architect For New Arena
- Oklahoma City Hires Architecture Firms For New Thunder Arena
- Downtown OKC Prepares For Demolition Ahead Of Construction Of New $900 Million Arena
