What acting career hasn’t been boosted by a banana costume? The banana costume. It’s the go-to costume for every shy kid in town. It works hard to free spirits and cure stage fright. It’s seen a few accidents here and there, but it’s had a good run. We at SandRidge are giving scholarships to the Thelma Gaylord Academy so this banana costume, and many others, can continue to make every kid in OKC a star.
w w w. S a n d R i d g e E n e rg y. c o m
LETTER
FROM THE EDITOR A FAMILY AFFAIR. That truly is the spirit of Thunder Basketball. We’re all in this together – players, coaches, staff, sponsors, fans. There is tremendous pride throughout our city and state, knowing that with the global reach of the NBA, the world absolutely is watching this special bond between a team, its fans and the community. Those watching will see what they have come to expect from Oklahoma City fans: a full arena, where nobody sits until the home team scores. They will see men, women and children dressed in a variety of Thunder gear, from hats to hoodies; from T-shirts to track jackets. And they will hear thunderous chants of “de-fense” and decibel-crushing roars. But you as Thunder fans take your role to the next level. You enjoy the game-night experience, sure, be it live from your seat in the arena or via a Thunder broadcast. But you are just as engaged when nobody is watching, when no score is kept. You know the Thunder Cares, so much so that you respond when we ask for your help: • In the past month you have contributed money and goodwill to benefit an injured Oklahoma City police officer and to help fund wildfire relief efforts. • You helped make the Oklahoma Blood Institute’s third annual Holiday Blood Drive its most successful single day, non-disaster-related drive in 34 years. • You provide food for the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, winter coats for those in need and children’s books to help stock the Rolling Thunder Book Bus. • You donated your tickets on Military Night to an active serviceman or woman who had recently returned from deployment. • You support our players and their private efforts to make a difference in the community they, too, call home. These are the efforts the NBA world should know to truly understand a Thunder fan. While pulling a T-shirt over a designer shirt makes for compelling visuals, it’s your all-in spirit that spontaneously forces you and 18,202 others like you to collectively stand on your feet and applaud for five minutes following a heart-breaking defeat last spring. That defining moment still has NBA personalities talking. But it’s only part of your story. Like the team, you too are Rising Together.
Thunder fans are eager to get involved and make a difference in the community. In March, nearly 400 volunteers joined the Thunder for a Community Day of Service (top photo) to benefit both the City Rescue Mission and Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. In December, Thunder fans (bottom left) turned out in record numbers for the Holiday Blood Drive. In January, fans stepped up to join forward Nick Collison in his efforts to help Special Care. Collison donated $40,000 and fans added an additional $14,000 through raffles and personal donations.
Ron Matthews Director, Digital Media & Publications rmatthews@thunder-nba.com
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Volume 3 Issue 4
magazine
THUNDER Professional Basketball Club, LLC
COVER FUN The fold-out cover was created through the magic of Photoshop, using roughly 70 different photographs of fans enjoying Thunder Basketball. While you’re looking to spot yourself or your friends in the image, see if you can locate Rumble, Thunder Girls Jessica and Shereka, Mayor Mick Cornett and Barry Switzer. Have fun. We did.
Chairman & Chief Executive Officer Clayton I. Bennett
Board of Directors
Aubrey K. McClendon G. Jeffrey Records, Jr. Tom L. Ward William M. Cameron Robert E. Howard II Everett R. Dobson Jay Scaramucci
Oklahoma City Thunder 211 N. Robinson, Suite 300 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 Phone: 405.208.4800
THUNDER.NBA.COM
Executive Vice President & General Manager Sam Presti
Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer Danny Barth
Senior Vice President, Sales & MARKETING Brian M. Byrnes
Senior Vice President, Guest Relations Pete Winemiller
Vice President, Business Development John Croley
VICE PRESIDENT, CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS, COMMUNITY RELATIONS & BROADCASTING Dan Mahoney
VICE PRESIDENT, TICKET SALES, RETENTION & DATABASE OPERATIONS Scott Loft
Vice President, Human Resources Katy Semtner
Managing Editor Ron Matthews
Business Development Nick Colburn, Whitney Emde, Wayne Guymon, Sean Heusel, Regan Lynn, Abby Morgan, Ryan O’Toole, Stephanie Parrish, Geoff Sanders, Tim Whang
Editorial Assistance Brian Facchini, Vicki Guerra, Karina Henderson, Roxanne Nguyen, Michael Ravina, John Read
Contributing Writers Phil Bacharach, Karina Henderson, Berry Tramel
Photography Richard A. Rowe, J.P. Wilson, Paul Wilson, OKC Thunder photos; Dustin Schmidt, Old Hat Creative
Graphic Design & Layout Brian Hostetler, Old Hat Creative, Norman, OK
Printing Southwestern Stationery & Bank Supply 4500 N. Santa Fe 73118 | P.O. Drawer 18697 Oklahoma City, OK 73154
32 ‘I’M HOOKED’ Barry Switzer’s view of the NBA changed in one night – Game 6 of the Thunder vs. Lakers playoff series. “I’ve never been involved with applause that showed really true emotion and appreciation like that crowd did that night. That was special.” It made him want more. We let him explain why.
OPENING SHOTS 6 The opening photographs are a popular feature of Thunder Magazine. From fans to stunning on-court action, our photographers continue to raise the bar.
SCENE & SEEN 69 KD and kids at a skills camp … signs to welcome new members to the Thunder Family … visiting students from Japan … Sam Bradford, Joe Carter and Wes Welker … just some of the images we’ve captured inside the Oklahoma City Arena.
PARTING SHOT 72 Elbow room.
Puzzle Solution from page 30
The information contained in this publication was compiled by the Oklahoma City Thunder and is provided as a courtesy to its fans. Any commercial use of this information is prohibited without the prior written consent of the Oklahoma City Thunder. All NBA and team insignias depicted in this publication are the property of NBA Properties, Inc. and the respective teams of the NBA Properties Inc. and may not be reproduced for commercial purposes without the prior written consent of NBA Properties, Inc. © Copyright 2011 Oklahoma City Thunder
Output On: December 10, 2010 10:47
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| PAGE 25
“Our crowd is the best in the league, no doubt.” … “Best fans in the NBA.” … “The fans here are special.” These are just some of the words players used to talk about Thunder fans. Read them all on the back of the detachable player cards, the last in a series of four for 2010-11.
I NEVER TOOK THETheSHOT isn’t half-court shot looks easy; getting there CARDS THUNDER PLAYER of detachable cards Second set in series
THUNDER FAMILY TREE Tulsa 66ers roster has strong ties to its NBA affiliate
COLLECT THEM ALL Missing any past issues of Thunder Magazine? Want to start your collection? Visit the THUNDER SHOP at the Oklahoma City Arena or at Leadership Square for past issues.
FACES IN THE CROWD
| Page 36
Thunder fans unite every game night to make the Oklahoma City Arena one of the most frenzied and talked-about venues in the NBA. From the first seat on the floor to the last seat atop Love’s Loud City, each of the 18,203 fans who fill the arena has a story to tell about the Thunder. Here are nine such stories.
CHARACTERS IN THE CROWD | Page 45
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They are easy to spot and impossible to ignore. Whether you are in the arena or in front of a television set, at some point you will notice the man with a brick head, the young man in his cape and mask, the dancing princess or two fans who prefer body paint to shirts. We have their stories and what inspires them to get into costume.
PERFECT ATTENDANCE
| Page 51
Travel time was not a factor. Nor were weather conditions or seat locations. Nothing could – or would – keep these Season Ticket Members from being in their seats for every Thunder home game. Their passion is noted, their dedication appreciated.
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INTERNATIONAL APPEAL | Page 58 Think the Thunder is big in Oklahoma City? We found fans all over the world in Thunder Blue, including one from Japan who followed his dream and is now working for the Thunder in its Events & Entertainment department.
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PUT YOUR HANDS IN THE AIR The sign says it all: Thunder fans in Love’s Loud City Rise Together to recognize the action on the court. PHOTO BY Richard A. Rowe / Thunder photo
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SPECIAL NIGHT Members of the United States Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team perform during halftime of the Thunder vs. Sacramento Kings game on Feb. 15. Military Night featured members and performance groups from all service branches. PHOTO BY Richard A. Rowe / Thunder photo
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A WARM THUNDER WELCOME Nazr Mohammed, Nate Robinson and Kendrick Perkins are introduced to the Thunder Family for the first time since trade-deadline deals brought them to Oklahoma City. Perkins said the ovation gave him the chills. PHOTO BY Richard A. Rowe / Thunder photo
Commitment Runs Deep
Our vision for a better tomorrow
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UP AND UNDER Thunder guard Thabo Sefolosha transfers the ball to his left hand as he gets past Spurs forward Tim Duncan for a reverse layup as Thunder teammates Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant move in for support. PHOTO BY D. Clark Evans / NBAE / Getty Images
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WE’RE GOING TO OVERTIME! Thunder forward Kevin Durant releases a 3-point shot that would tie the game against the 76ers at 101-all and force overtime. The Thunder went on to win, 110-105. PHOTO BY Jesse D. Garrabrant / NBAE / Getty Images
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YOU MAKE ME WANT TO … SHOUT! Thunder forward Serge Ibaka reacts following a reverse, onehand jam that caught the Suns’ Channing Frye (8) and Marcin Gortat (4) by surprise and left the net hanging on the rim. PHOTO BY Richard A. Rowe / Thunder photo
Delivering elivering Your News Your News IN A WHOLE NEW WAY THE OKLAHOMAN NOW AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD
RUSSELL WINDS UP Thunder guard Russell Westbrook locks in on the rim as he completes his windmill dunk against the Pistons. The play generated a roar in the OKC Arena and was voted the NBA’s Play of the Day. PHOTO BY Layne Murdoch / NBAE / Getty Images
20 PHOTO BY Richard A. Rowe / Thunder photo
Thunder guard James Harden elevates to the rim after getting past Pacers forward Tyler Hansbrough.
SUSPENDED IN AIR
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J o i n f e l low T h u n d e r fa n s every home game! • Only outside the OKC Arena Box Office • 25 pairs awarded
one hour before tip-off • 75 pairs are available for
purchase at $10 per ticket • Free Buffalo Wild Wings
for the first 75 in line THUNDER.NBA.COM
Complimentary food will be provided by
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Matt Pinto
REMAINING SCHEDULE
FS Oklahoma
April 6
vs. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS
7 PM
OKC COX 37
April 8
vs. DENVER NUGGETS
7 PM
COX HD 722
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Tulsa COX 27
April 11 at SACRAMENTO KINGS
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Dish Network: Check guide
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The Thunder broadcast team of Brian Davis, Grant Long, Kelly Crull and Matt Pinto bring the action on the court to your TV and radio. Catch Thunder Basketball exclusively on FOX Sports Oklahoma and the statewide Thunder Radio Network, led by WWLS, The Sports Animal (98.1 FM, 640 AM).
p h y S I C I A N • p At I e N t • t e C h N o L o G y • p R o C e D u R e • C o M M u N I t y b e N e F I t • AwA R e N e S S
Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation
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Kelsey eisenhour, patient with Spinal Cord Injury, and Greg horneber, therapist
A Step Above Exercises, walking and functional activities are integral parts of rehabilitation, but at INteGRIS Jim thorpe Rehabilitation, there’s so much more. There is a facility that is unrivaled in Oklahoma. A staff that prescribes compassion and friendship as much as exercises and treatment plans. A wide scope of treatment – from stroke and spinal cord rehab to traumatic brain injury and multi-trauma rehab. And there’s the commitment to doing whatever it takes to get you back to your life.
LeARN by LovING At Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation, the therapists and doctors know that you learn best when you’re doing something you love. That’s why they implement many kinds of therapies – horticulture, music, aquatic, pet and recreational therapy – to get you involved, get you smiling and get you independent. INTEGRIS Southwest Medical Center 4219 S. Western Ave.
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"It reminds of like Friday Night Lights in football where everything shuts down and everyone comes to the game or talks about the game. The fans here are great. I noticed it even when I came in as an opponent, I could always hear 'em cheering and now it's even better since I'm on the Thunder. The fans are just great. I love 'em."
"The basketball fans here are great, some of the best fans I've seen anywhere. They've helped us win games. They give us the extra energy we need to win close games at the end. The fans here are really special."
"Our crowd is the best in the league, no doubt. They're always loud. They give you confidence that you can do anything you need to do. They make us believe we can come back if we're down. They're just the best."
"Best fans in the NBA. They're really loud, they get us going. They fire us up. It's exciting inside the arena, very exciting and the fans are the reason."
"This is one of the new NBA cities and I think the crowd has been wonderful. Coming from Boston I don't see a lot of difference, the fans were great there and they've been great here. The fans here are very supportive of our team and you just have no choice but to go out there and play hard for them."
"The fans here are special. I noticed it that very first year. We didn't win many games but they stuck with us. We always had big crowds and they always cheered us on. It's no different now. The fans here are great and we all appreciate the support because we know it's not like this everywhere."
"The Oklahoma City fans are fantastic. I love it when they get loud. They help me play, I want to do something that will make them yell even louder. So I'm really happy when I can block a shot because I love to hear them be so loud."
"The fans here remind me of that college atmosphere. Their support is unconditional. I've seen a lot crowds around the league and our fans are some of the best I've ever seen, if not the best. They're great."
"Our fans are amazing. They can really get us going. It's fun when they're so loud we can hardly hear each other on the bench. They're the best."
“Oklahoma City is like a college atmosphere. With our team being so young, it takes us back to our college days because it is so loud at times. Everyone comes up to us in the community and tells us how proud they are to have an NBA team in Oklahoma. They definitely love us and give us all kinds of support."
"I love the fans here. They've been really great. They support us no matter what's going on. I think that's what makes them so special. You never hear any boos. They're always loud and that makes us play even harder."
"We have the best supportive fan base in the NBA. They support us no matter what. They're there consistently. We can always count on them and some teams can't do that. It's amazing to have the fans we have."
"I knew the basketball fans around here were great from when I was playing at KU, but it's been something to see how excited they are during our games and how loud they get. I love the fans here. They're great. Really amazing."
"Our crowds are very energetic and they're consistent. I think that's what I like the most. No matter who we're playing the crowd is always into the game. They really help us win. We all really appreciate the fans here in Oklahoma City. They lift us up when we need it and they keep us going."
© Copyright 2011, Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores, Inc., All Rights Reserved. Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores (and design) is a registered trademark of Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores. Any other logos are property of their respective owners. Photo: E.H. Roth
Welcome to Love’s Loud City Prepare to leave the rest of the world behind. This is the hometown of Loud. If you’re not yellin’ you better have a doctor’s note. Get on your feet for the loudest 48 minutes of your life. It begins NOW.
Love’s Travel Stops and Country Stores, is the Proud Sponsor and Official Convenience Store of the Oklahoma City THUNDER.
Solution on page 4
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MidFirst Bank is proud to be the Official Bank of the Oklahoma City Thunder. 888.MIDFIRST (643-3477) Member FDIC
32
‘IT’S GOT ME
HOOKED’
I
was never much of an NBA fan. I don’t think I’d ever been to an NBA game before Oklahoma City. You know what, I think I did go. Detroit. What do they call that place? The Palace of Auburn Hills? Grant Hill was playing. I don’t know why I got tickets. I sat in a box (suite). I thought I was 10 miles away. I knew the superstars. I watched the NBA Finals if I was home. But being a fan of any team, or following a team, or naming a starting lineup, who the sixth man was, I couldn’t tell you. Then I went to a Thunder playoff game last year against the Lakers. Game 6. Sat with Clay Bennett as the crowd gave that standing ovation after we lost. That was one of those moments ... life holds very few moments like that, when you have a crowd that’s 18,000 people, and they’re thanking the Thunder in appreciation to the coaches, organization, president, players. Their appreciation for bringing something special to Oklahoma, for Oklahomans to be a part of and support and be proud of. I don’t know if anyone
ever timed it. But I’ve never been involved with applause that showed really true emotion and appreciation like that crowd did that night. Oklahomans take pride in their sports and what they’re known for, the people. That’s what I felt. I looked at how all the coaches and players stood there and accepted the praise. It was special. We got excited about it. It’s made me an NBA fan. Made me buy eight season tickets — me and my sonin-law — nice tickets, for my grandchildren to be a part of this and grow with it. We’re renewing. We’re re-upping. Same place. It’s got me hooked. I really enjoy going to the games, because it’s an experience, it’s a happening, an event. Rumble, he’s something else. But I love it all — the announcer, the entertainment, the enthusiasm they create in the crowd. I sit in Section 106, a few rows up from the floor. Love it. I get to survey the whole court. I’ve sat courtside; I really prefer where I am versus that because I can see so much better. I like
My view of the NBA changed in one night, a special night that reinforced the qualities of Oklahomans. Did more than that, though. Made me want my own tickets. I got em. I’m in. ‘
THUNDER BASKETBALL:
By Barry Switzer, as told to Berry Tramel
where I’m sitting. I love to watch it. I’m kind of like I am watching football. I don’t always watch the ball. I watch the play inside. How they push and shove and fight. Keep staying in position. I love to watch those guys underneath play. The Thunder has been a tremendously positive thing for Oklahoma City. I thought about it when I watched Kendrick Perkins’ (introductory) interview. I wondered what his reaction would be to Oklahomans. A kid from Beaumont, Texas, the golden triangle. He probably relates to us a whole lot better than he does anyone in Boston. So much attention is given to these guys. Everybody knows Kevin Durant, but locally, they’re getting so much attention, and everybody’s taken to ’em. It’s our team. Anybody that looks out there and sees Coach (Scott) Brooks and his staff, gotta appreciate the job they’re doing. Got a young team, got a great opportunity. I support ’em. I’m glad we got it, I know that. My grandkids love it. It’s nothing but wonderful for the state of Oklahoma. Hell, it made me a fan.
“
… life holds very few moments like that, when you have a crowd that’s 18,000 people, and they’re thanking the Thunder in appreciation to the coaches, organization, president, players. Their appreciation for bringing something special to Oklahoma.”
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SeaSOn TickeTS fOr 2011-12 are nOw On Sale! Limited number available
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FACES CROWD IN THE
Be Loud. Check. ... Be Proud. Check. ... Wear Blue? Can Do! Thunder fans unite every game night to make the Oklahoma City Arena one of the most frenzied and talked about venues in the NBA. From the first seat on the floor to the last seat atop Love’s Loud City, each of the 18,203 fans who fill the arena has a story to tell about the Thunder. Here are a few of them.
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Mark, Heather and Presley Davidson Moore, OK Season Ticket MemberS since 2010-2011
Through Rumble, Thunder Basketball has become a family affair for the Davidsons.
Bob Carroll oklahoma city Season Ticket Member since 2008-2009 Growing up in Philadelphia, U.S. Air Force Sgt. Bob Carroll counted himself a diehard fan of the Phillies, Eagles, 76ers and Flyers. Then he moved to Oklahoma City, and Bob was forced to wean himself off big-league sports. The arrival of the Thunder changed
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A lifelong sports fan, Mark Davidson embraced the Thunder the moment the team arrived in Oklahoma City. As it turns out, the love he and wife Heather have for the Thunder has rubbed off on the couple’s 7-year-old daughter, Presley. “Most 7-year-old girls are into Hannah Montana, Taylor Swift or Justin Bieber, but Presley is into Rumble,” says Mark. “When she first met Rumble at an event, it really flipped a switch. She went from going to the games just to see Rumble to taking an interest in the team itself. She fell in love with basketball.” Presley still adores Rumble, of course – her bedroom is practically a shrine to the
all that. “For the first time we had something to call our own, and I wanted to be a part of it,” says the 33-year-old Bob. “I was fortunate enough to get great season tickets, and the snowball of fun started there.” The Thunder provided Bob with plenty of heart-pounding NBA action, but it also offered this husband and father of three a greater sense of connection to his adopted hometown. “It’s more than just watching a basketball game,” he says. “It’s about 18,203 people with a common goal of supporting our team and earning a ‘W.’ It’s about walking into a store with a Thunder hat on and striking up a conversation with a stranger about the game last night. I take a lot of pride in being a part of it all.” And he’s been part of it often. Bob has missed only nine games in three seasons. He’s also a regular on the Thunder game-night web chats. “I have a very, very, very understanding wife,” he says.
furry guy – but now Thunder games are a true family affair. Among Mark’s favorite moments is when he and Presley helped Rumble execute a sling-shot stunt in the 2010-11 preseason. “We high-fived each other, which is on the Jumbotron before every game right before tip-off,” says the 49-year-old Mark, an attorney for Tinker Air Force Base. “We can relive that awesome moment before each game.” Still, he is holding out for one Thunder memory that has yet to materialize. “I would one day love to sit courtside for one game, just to say we did — have the Jack Nicholson seats for a playoff game or other big-time game,” says Mark. “That would be a bucket-list moment, so I’m shooting for that.”
Allene Bottom hammon, OK Season Ticket Member since 2008-2009 Retired schoolteacher Allene Bottom lives on a cattle ranch more than 100 miles from Oklahoma City. Even so, this 74-year-old Thunder loyalist hasn’t missed more than a dozen games since the team’s inaugural season in 2008-09. “I will be there if I am not sick or the weather is not bad, “ she says. “I have loved to watch the NBA since back in the ‘70s, when Dr. J was playing. I am lucky now to have a team close enough to go watch. I guess I am a dyedin-the-wool fan.”
Cory, Holly, Corbin, Braden and Annastyn Washam OWASSO, OK Season Ticket MemberS since 2009-2010
The Washams, pictured with Kevin Durant, regularly make the four-hour roundtrip drive from their home in Owasso to the OKC Arena for every home game.
Robert Bright SPRINGFIELD, MISS. Season Ticket Member since 2010-2011 A single game in Oklahoma City: That’s all it took for Robert Bright to fall in love with Thunder Basketball. He and a group of friends had made the drive from Springfield, Missouri, last year to see the team take on the Golden State Warriors, “If I remember correctly, it was a Sunday night game, and an ice storm had just come through Oklahoma City,” says Robert, 25. “What an opportune time for us to drive four hours.
The energy in the building is what hooked us. There were a lot of people that still came out to the game and we got the ‘W.’ ” Rocked by the experience, Robert and his chums became Season Ticket Members – despite living nearly 300 miles away. “I can’t say I’ve ever thought of the drive as a hindrance,” he says. “We are always so amped up that it flies by. The drive home can feel longer, but we usually have a bunch of stuff to talk about from the experience at the game.” After about 20 games and more than 11,500 miles logged, Robert is still hooked. “I still get chills at the beginning of every game,” he says.
Cory Washam’s world revolved around basketball when he was a boy growing up in a small town in Arkansas. It was his nourishment. His high-school team made it to the state finals when he was a sophomore and won the district championship his senior year. When he wasn’t on the court playing small forward, he was watching games on TV. “I dreamed of being a scout for the NBA,” says Cory, 34. “I did not realize that dream, but now my family and I have been able to watch a young team develop into one of the best teams in the NBA.” Just in case you don’t appreciate the extent of the Washams’ Thunder loyalty: They happily make the four-hour round-trip drive from Owasso, Okla., to the Oklahoma City Arena and back for every home game. Cory and Holly have Thunder license plates. Their sons, 10-year-old Corbin and 6-yearold Braden, have adorned their bedrooms in Thunder memorabilia. “My Thunder experience is shared with family, friends and business associates,” Cory says. “I enjoy taking people that have never experienced live Thunder Basketball. I know that after attending a game in person, they, too, will become die-hard fans.”
Robert Bright (back row, third from left) and his friends live nearly 300 miles away, but they are regulars for Thunder Basketball.
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marriot_light_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" marriot_light_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" marriott_med_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" marriott_med_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å�ç�´ƒ©˙ˆ�˚��˜ø�œ®ß†¨���¥�`¡™£¢�§¶•ªº–�“‘«…æ��÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø�Œ‰Íˇ¨�„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" marriott_bold_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? åç´ƒ©˙ˆ˚¬µ˜øœ®ß†¨¥`¡™£¢§¶•ªº–“‘«…æ÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜،‰Íˇ¨„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" marriott_bold_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? åç´ƒ©˙ˆ˚¬µ˜øœ®ß†¨¥`¡™£¢§¶•ªº–“‘«…æ÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜،‰Íˇ¨„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" marriot_condensed_light_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '"
BIG CELEBRATIONS ARE ALL ABOUT THE marriot_condensed_medium_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ SMALLEST DETAILS. ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '"
Whatever your special occasion, the Four Diamond Waterford marriot_condensed_bold_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '"
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Waterford Marriott 6300 Waterford Blvd. Oklahoma City, OK 73118
Brian, Trinity and Lincoln Smith oklahoma city Season Ticket MemberS since 2010-2011 “Greetings from the top of Love’s Loud City.” That was the note from Brian Smith. He is not kidding. On Thunder game nights, the Smiths — Brian, Trinity and 6-year-old Lincoln — walk the 40 steps necessary to reach their seats located in the last row in Section 319. They wouldn’t have it any other way. “We love being at ‘Pikes Peak’ of the OKC Arena,” says Brian, 52, owner of Chameleon Entertainment. “We can stand up at any time, and Lincoln can sing and dance and not bother anyone behind us. Plus, the wall behind us is a good place for coats, drinks and foam fingers.” The Smiths purchased their season tickets with the goal of creating memories as a family. Brian grew up a “huge Celtics and Sooner fan” and is enjoying watching his son experience that same passion with the Thunder. “I don’t know if Lincoln will like OU,
For the Smiths, Thunder Basketball is an ideal way to create family memories.
but I know he’ll grow up a Thunder fan and pass it on to his kids,” he said. That passion and pride extend beyond game nights. The Smiths recently were in
San Antonio and “rocked” Thunder gear throughout their stay. “We got quite a bit of Thunder love, no matter where we went,” Brian says.
Sue and Michael Gaetz OKLAHOMA CITY Season Ticket MemberS since 2008-2009
Thunder game nights are “date nights” for Michael and Sue Gaetz.
Michael and Sue Gaetz have been to nearly every Thunder game since that inaugural season in 2008, but a game against the Nuggets will always stand out in their memories. “We were invited to upgrade our seats,” says Michael, 52. “We were sitting courtside. With maybe two seconds on the clock, KD made a 3-point basket to put the Thunder up. The place was going nuts and KD and I actually did a jump bump and exchanged a high-five.” Oklahoma City didn’t win
that night, but the close loss hardly diminished Michael and Sue’s enjoyment. “We just enjoy everything from the moment we walk in the door,” says Michael. “The vendors, ushers, game neighbors, dancers — it is just a good time. And even better when we win a close game!” The Gaetzes refer to Thunder games, home and away, as “date night.” When the game starts, they’re either in their seats at the arena or in front of their television set, cheering wildly for the men in white (home jerseys) or blue (road). Chances are, they too are wearing their Thunder gear. From T-shirts to jerseys, from hats to car flags, Michael or Sue is showing their Thunder pride. “My wife even has an autographed shoe … signed by Kevin Durant for her birthday last year!”
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Ernest and Sendra Magness okLAHOMA CITY Season Ticket MemberS since 2008-2009 Ernest and Sendra Magness of Oklahoma City have had a regular date 116 nights over the past three years. Thunder Season Ticket Members since the beginning, the couple has missed just two regular-season games — and that’s only because bad weather prevented them from driving to the arena. “It keeps you on the edge of your seat. You never know what’s going to happen,” Sendra said. “You can just feel the energy and I think I think our players feed off it. There’s nothing like it. I just feel like I have to be there. I can’t miss a game!” They feel that energy sitting in Section 318 of Love’s Loud City. “You can feel the togetherness. You can feel the vibe. We just love it and think it’s great for Oklahoma City,” Ernest said. While praising what the Thunder has done for Oklahoma City, Ernest admits it has had a strong impact on him and his wife as well. “I feel proud to watch this team grow right in front of us. It gives me
Bill and Virginia Sasser
Austin and Tristin Jorgensen stand with Russell Westbrook following a game.
Sendra and Ernest Magness love the ‘vibe’ the Thunder brings to their marriage and city.
and my wife something to do. She just lights up every game. It does a lot for us,” he said. They have renewed their seats and are ready to continue their love affair with the Thunder — and each other.
Thunder experience enriches the grandparenting experience. When the team is at home, Bill and perkins, ok Virginia usually attend games with their Season Ticket MemberS son, Robert, and his two kids: 15-year-old since 2008-2009 John and 10-year-old Emily. They get to the Oklahoma City Arena early enough for all Bill and Virginia Sasser adore Thunder the pregame activities and a bit of shopping Basketball. Not as much as they love for Thunder gear. their six grandchildren and two “It has been very special to share great-grandchildren, of course, but the Thunder experience with the the couple has discovered how the grandchildren. Emily was honorary captain the first game the Thunder came to town and again last year,” says Bill, a 67-year-old banker in Perkins, Okla. “The experience with the grandchildren is why we are renewing all four seats for another three years. The wife and I are getting older, and hopefully this will be something Bill and Virginia Sasser attend Thunder games with their the grandchildren grandchildren Emily, 10, and John, 15. remember the rest of their lives.”
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Kenny, Kimberly, Justin, Austin and Tristin Jorgensen prague, ok Season Ticket MemberS since 2010-2011 New Yorkers can be a pretty jaded bunch, they will tell you. Kenny Jorgensen, a Yankee transplant now residing in Oklahoma, says it’s no small feat that he is continually knocked out by the Thunder experience. “Growing up in New York and being a die-hard Yankees fan, I am accustomed to an organization doing whatever it takes to put the best possible show on for its fans and putting a team together that has a chance to win it all every year,” he says. “I see this attitude of winning here in Oklahoma City with the Thunder.” The 40-year-old Kenny, who routinely attends the games with his family, also senses that winning attitude in the roar of the hometown crowd. “From the time you enter the door to the arena, you can feel the buzz of excitement in the air,” he says. “I have been to other NBA venues, and not one of them has the buzz that the fans and players bring to the Oklahoma City Arena.”
They are easy to spot and impossible to ignore. Whether you are in the sea of 18,203 bodies that fills the Oklahoma City Arena on Thunder game nights or are in front of a television set, at some point you will notice the man with the brick head, the young man in his cape and mask, the woman in her tiara or the two fans who prefer body paint to shirts. They are among a small but passionate group of
CHARACTERS IN THE
CROWD
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CHARACTER NAME: Thunder Princess REAL NAME: Nauzi Jagosh
SECTION, SEAT: Section 116, Row A, Seat 2 DEBUT: I believe it was March 4, 2009 during the Love’s Ultimate Thunder fan contest. I just remember being very excited to debut my character and especially enjoyed how much everyone else loved my outfit. INSPIRATION: I wanted to be something girly and cute, so I thought who doesn’t love a princess?
TIME IT TAKES TO GET IN COSTUME: Depends, but usually an hour from start to finish.
BEST MEMORY WHEN IN COSTUME: Going to L.A. for the first Thunder playoff game and getting booed for being a distraction during the opponent’s free throws.
ANY PLAYER COMMENTS OR INTERACTIONS:
costume they assure me they don’t think I’m crazy, but I think they’re just being nice.
ON GAME DAYS, I GET THE STRANGEST LOOKS WHEN I: Don’t wear the whole outfit, people always ask, where’s the skirt?
ONE THING FANS WOULDN’T KNOW ABOUT THUNDER PRINCESS: She’s terrible at sports of all kind, a much better spectator than participant.
BEST PART ABOUT BEING THUNDER PRINCESS IS: Getting to have an alter ego that
Any time I’ve seen a player while in
everyone loves.
CHARACTER NAME: THUNdER MAN
BEST MEMORY WHEN IN COSTUME: Meeting Kevin Durant before a game!
REAL NAME: Anonymous
ANY PLAYER COMMENTS OR INTERACTIONS: SECTION, SEAT: Section 116, Row A, Seat 2 DEBUT: November 12, 2008 against the Orlando Magic.
INSPIRATION: When I was really young, I was really into superheroes, and my love of sports has been with me pretty much all my life. The early 2000s Raptors and Vince Carter got me hooked on the NBA. I always wanted OKC to have a team of its own, and when the Thunder got here, I really wanted to show my appreciation. So, naturally, with my love of sports and superheroes, Thunder Man was born.
TIME IT TAKES TO GET IN COSTUME: About two minutes!
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This year, Dwight Howard of the Orlando Magic walked across the court during warmups to tell me to “work on my chest muscles.” I also had a staring contest with Denver’s Chris “The Birdman” Anderson on Christmas. Kevin Durant regularly gives me a nod when he re-ties his shoes before tipoff.
ON GAME DAYS, I GET THE STRANGEST LOOKS WHEN I: Walked around Downtown L.A. in full costume before Game 1 of the series against the Lakers last year!
ONE THING FANS WOULDN’T KNOW ABOUT THUNDER MAN: Before every game, I get to touch the game ball!
BEST PART ABOUT BEING THUNDER MAN IS: Meeting so many nice people, interacting with the players and getting to see so much basketball.
CHARACTER NAME: BRICKman REAL NAME: Derrick Seys SECTION, SEAT: Section 120, Row AA, Seats 9, 10
TIME IT TAKES TO GET IN COSTUME:
DEBUT: From the old school,
BEST MEMORY WHEN IN COSTUME:
Brickman’s OKC debut was Feb. 4, 2006 against the Lakers. Kobe had recently scored 81 against Toronto and I did not want that in our house. Signs would not be enough. My idea for a new Styrofoam prop morphed into the headgear you see today, complimented by the OKC brick cloak in 2009.
BEAT LA — Playoffs 2010 with the loud crowd and energy.
INSPIRATION: Simply a product of the environment: basketball, “brick” — an errant shot off the rim; seat position; and Bricktown all came together for a distracting look that embodies the beauty of brick. The handcrafted protective brick cloak truly mimics Bricktown. The signs are inspired by the players and opponents. Oh, so many signs!
Use the BRICK as a meal tray (by design).
Seconds.
ANY PLAYER COMMENTS OR INTERACTIONS: Numerous smirks, double-takes and head shakes as I stare down the free-throw shooter.
ON GAME DAYS, I GET THE STRANGEST LOOKS WHEN I:
ONE THING FANS WOULDN’T KNOW ABOUT BRICKMAN: I was raised on a farm in Illinois.
BEST PART ABOUT BEING BRICKMAN IS: Being appreciated for contributing to free-throw defense and the Thunder experience!
CHARACTER NAME: OKC CRAZYFAN! REAL NAME: Jeremy Scott Miller SECTION, SEAT: Wherever they let me sit ... I’M THERE!
DEBUT: Started last season. I was just a very loud fan in what is now Love’s Loud City, so I started calling myself the Crazy Fan! As time went by I felt I needed to step it up ... A LOT! So I decided to morph the character into what he is now! Being this way gives me a lot more freedom to be loud and proud while showing the TRUE Thunder Blue colors!
them and made them put on a Thunder shirt. Why? ‘CAUSE THEY WERE IN OUR HOUSE!
ANY PLAYER COMMENTS OR INTERACTIONS: Not yet, sitting atop Love’s Loud City I get more fan reaction then anything.
ON GAME DAYS, I GET THE STRANGEST LOOKS WHEN I: SHOW UP! ONE THING FANS WOULDN’T KNOW ABOUT OKC CRAZYFAN!: My alter ego is BIG J MILLZ (DJ,
Thunder Games, then really just wanted to take it a lot further!
top of the stairs in Love’s Loud City), one small portion of the entertainment before the game.
TIME IT TAKES TO GET IN COSTUME: 10 minutes.
BEST PART ABOUT BEING OKC CRAZYFAN! IS:
INSPIRATION: Started with being crazy at the
BEST MEMORY WHEN IN COSTUME: Standing at the top of Love’s Loud City with the Storm Chasers for the Miami Heat game, and every time we spotted a Miami fan, we stopped
Fan interaction! I love the way it gets the crowd hyped to see a full-grown man out there supporting his team in any way he can! I like the looks I get because it’s not everyone that can do what THE CRAZYFAN DOES!!!
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The
of
University
OklahOma
Ranked in the top 10 public universities by the Princeton Review in terms of academic excellence and value to students. Number one in the nation in National Merit Scholars enrolled at a public university.
CHARACTER NAME: THUNDOR REAL NAME: Garrett Dale Haviland SECTION, SEAT: Section 101, Row SS, Seat 1 DEBUT: Nov. 19, 2008, Thunder vs. Clippers. I was rather anxious; there may have even been a hint of embarrassment as I donned the tights, cape and mask. Since that day I have never looked back.
INSPIRATION: I based the costume off of my “Nacho Libre” costume I had worn for Halloween just two weeks earlier.
TIME IT TAKES TO GET IN COSTUME: It depends whether or not I am leaving straight from work, if I paint my belly and if I have to wait on the Heckler to get painted up.
BEST MEMORY WHEN IN COSTUME: I have made several great memories over the years while in costume, but my favorite memories have to be when I actually make a noticeable impact on the game. So far, Kenyon Martin of the Nuggets, Chris Andersen of the Nuggets, Damien Wilkins of the Hawks and DeMarcus Cousins of the Kings have all been distracted with laughter during some of my shirtless antics, causing them to lose concentration and thus miss their free throws. ANY PLAYER COMMENTS OR INTERACTIONS: One night after the Thunder game I went to Hooters for a post-game treat and happened to meet Russell Westbrook, Eric Maynor and Daequan Cook. I introduced myself by saying, “Hello, my name is Garrett. You can call me Thundor — I am the guy with the mask and megaphone.” Cook was quick to his feet and said, “Aw man, that’s you!” All three players were very polite and took a photo with us. They seemed just as happy to meet Thunder Princess, the Heckler and myself as we were to meet them.
ON GAME DAYS, I GET THE STRANGEST LOOKS WHEN I: Rip my shirt off, duh! ONE THING FANS WOULDN’T KNOW ABOUT THUNDOR: Despite my crazy antics, I actually have a very serious job as a program manager of a DHS girls’ group home.
BEST PART ABOUT BEING THUNDOR IS: Being able to say that I, along with my ultimate fan cronies, help make up the loudest arena in the NBA!
Impossible to miss and hard to ignore, Thundor (in grass skirt) and The Heckler take pride in disrupting an opponent shooting free throws.
CHARACTER NAME: The Heckler REAL NAME: Chris Morris SECTION, SEAT: Section 120 DEBUT: Dec. 2, 2009 vs. the Philadelphia 76ers
INSPIRATION: The costume was inspired by my high-school years painting my body for football games. It was so much fun then, and still is. TIME IT TAKES TO GET IN COSTUME: It takes about an hour to get all the paint on my body and dried. BEST MEMORY WHEN IN COSTUME: Taking a picture with Russell Westbrook, Eric Maynor and Daequan Cook after a Thunder victory one night.
ANY PLAYER COMMENTS OR INTERACTIONS: Seeing the guys out after the game
was pretty cool. I have had a
couple opponents laugh at me and point or talk to their teammates about me. Magic center Dwight Howard really liked it.
ON GAME DAYS, I GET THE STRANGEST LOOKS WHEN I: Walk to the game. Some people are caught off guard by me. I don’t know why. I’m only painted blue and orange. Or when I go eat somewhere before or after the game. People at restaurants don’t know what to think.
ONE THING FANS WOULDN’T KNOW ABOUT THE HECKLER: I have to shave my chest before every game.
BEST PART ABOUT BEING THE HECKLER IS: Getting the crowd involved, being on TV, having fun and taking pictures with the ladies.
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Travel time was not a factor. Nor were weather conditions or seat locations. Nothing could — or would — keep these Season Ticket Members from being in their seats for every Thunder home game.* Whether their family home was in Prague or Yukon, Guthrie or Tuttle, Norman or Oklahoma City, the distance didn’t matter. Even when the ice hit and the roads were bad, these faithful made it to the arena and, just as important, to their seat, be it Courtside, Lower Level, Cox Club Level or Love’s Loud City. Nicely done, all. Your passion is noted and your dedication is appreciated!
GO THUNDER!! * through March 23
The Season Ticket Members highlighted in this feature represent a segment of our fan base who have activated their tickets for all Thunder home games this season. The Thunder recognizes and salutes our fans for their unwavering support. ANDERSON, Bill ARNOLD, Terri
ARNOLD, Andy BATSON, David
BRUBAKER, Lori GHAVIDEL, Marisa
BYRAM, Gregg WEBB, Chester CALHOUN, Pat CAMPBELL, Ron CAMPBELL, Linda CUMMINGS, LaNese
CUMMINGS, Keith DeCOCQ, Eddie DeCOCQ, Maxine DOUGLAS, Don DOUGLAS, Margaret DUBEY, David
DUBEY, Marsha ESCALERA, Rudy ESCALERA, Gloria FAIRSHEETS, Robin FAIRSHEETS, Ronald FALCONE, John
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ROWE, Robert FARLEY, Brian FARLEY, Robert FLEMING, Chris FLEMING, Ashley DURRETT, Don
DURRETT, Parker WRIGHT, Carolyn CAVAZOS, Jessica DURRETT, Matthew FUNCK, Steve GRAY, Nick
GREEN, Rick HAFFNER, Christopher HAYES, Glenn HAYES, Maria HUFFMAN, Curtis HUFFMAN, Jessica
HURT, Gary JENKINS, Linda JENKINS, George JOHNSON, Cindy JOHNSON, Ron JONES, Katie
“
It’s really quite extraordinary to see what has happened here. The support for the team: the economic support for the team and the fan support for the team.”
JONES JR., Tim JONES, Ed JONES, Kyle
JORGENSEN, Kenny JORGENSEN, Austin KADAVY, Jerry
David Stern, — NBA Commissioner
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NOT PICTURED: ADKINS, Sam ALAME, James ALLEN, James ARNOLD, Linda BRADFORD, Peter BROWN, Dennis BRUMLEY, Geniva BURLESON, Doug COOK, Jeff COOK, Kelly CORSAIR MANAGEMENT CO. DOLLAR, Lynn ENOS, Julie ENOS, Terry FAGAN, Tim FARRIS, Brad FERGUSON, Judy FOREVER YOUNG REHAB, LLC. GAINES, Dewayne GIBSON, Melissa HANSON, Gary HARBERT, Kirk HAWKINS, Connie HAWKINS, Terry HEIDEBRECHT, Larry HENDRIX MARKETING GROUP HORNSBY, Gary HUDSON, Davis HUFFMAN, George HUMPHREYS, Kirk HUNTINGTON, Chad HUTCHINS, Justin JEFFERSON, Wiiliam KAHLE, Curtis KANE, Curtis KAUFMAN, Chris KENNEY, Christopher LA FUENTE HM MED EQUIPMENT SUPPLIES LAIRET, John LAUDERDALE, Mike LIVELY, Michael LYLES, Darlene MARTICH, William McCLANAHAN, Gary McGUIRE, Janice & Nathaniel McVAY, Jon MILKOWSKI, Elsie MINTER, Jeff MOORE QUALITY INVESTMENTS, LLC. MOORE, Clay MOORE, Michael MYERS, Steven NELSON, Michael NEWCOMB, Gerald OBLANDER, Mark OLAY, Michael PALMER, Elizabeth POUND, Kyle RICKS, Bill ROUBIK, Geoff SAHA, Amit SMITH, Chris SMITH, Dickey SWAIN, Sharletha THOMAS, Jay TILTON, Jeremy UMPHRIES, Darryl VANDEN, Robert WALKER, Joan YADON, Travis
KADAVY, Cindy KEYSER, Jeff KEYSER, Jackie KRAUSE, Vicki
KRAUSE, Denny LEFFEL, Keith LEFFEL, Lori LESTER, Carol
LESTER, Mark LIGHTFOOT, Will BAUMEISTER, Ty LISLE, Jim
MARCUS, Sara HARRIS, Monte McCUNE, Barbara McCUNE, Rick
McFADDEN, Whitney McFADDEN, Greg McGOURAN, Jim McGOURAN, Laura
MELTON, Kristi MELTON, Rodd MORGAN, Tom MORGAN, Margarate
MORRISON, Janie MORRISON, Jack MOSBY, Brittany BLACK, Alexis
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PRICE, Louis PRICE, Mary RIGGS, Judy RIGGS, Richard ROBERTS, Harold
ROBERTS, Stacy ROBINSON, Janelle ROBINSON, Marlon SALLEE, Larry SANGER, Ford
SANGER, Angie SCIMECA, James SHILLING, Bud STEELE, Jeremy STEELE, Joe STEHR, Vivian
STEHR, Richard STROTHER, Annette STROTHER, Robert GOODEN, Valerie GOODEN, Brent VAN NORT, Stan
VAN NORT, Liz VILLAR, Kevin JONES, Jessica VONFELDT, Deborah WALKER, Joan WELCH, Michael
WEST, Everett WEST, Sami
YINGLING, Linda YINGLING, Sam
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In the world of Facebook, ‘Like’ is a common term used between the Thunder and its rapidly growing fanbase. But that doesn’t accurately capture the passion of those who follow the team from across the globe — one going so far as to join the staff as an intern.
I
t’s not easy being a basketball fan in Japan. The sport has its adherents, but is often given short shrift in a country dominated by baseball. For an NBA fan like Hiroshi “Morris” Morioka, who grew up in the Japanese city of Okayama while following the feats of NBA greats Reggie Miller and Michael Jordan, basketball appeared to get no respect in his country.
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Morioka wouldn’t stand for it. Literally — he refused to stand for it. At the age of 22, he made headlines in his native land by dribbling a basketball 300 miles in 14 days. “I had to do something for basketball,” explains Morioka, who is now 26. “That’s why I did it. I think it definitely encouraged people.” He was convinced there was more to do for the sport he so loved. Morioka
by Phil Bacharach dreamed of helping spearhead a renaissance for Japanese basketball by becoming general manager of a pro team. To prepare himself, he resolved to learn the business at the NBA team that had won his heart long-distance: the Oklahoma City Thunder. “People say, ‘You can’t do that,’ ” Morioka says of his GM aspirations. CONTINUED ON PAGE 61
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“But I can do it.” And he’s on course to prove his mettle, having traveled to the U.S. for an adventure of a lifetime. After a short stint working at a minor-league baseball team in Pennsylvania, the preternaturally ambitious Morioka landed an internship with the Thunder’s Events & Entertainment Department. Since last October, he has done everything from building props to conducting in-depth analysis of how the Thunder entertainment crew and fans influence the free-throw performance of opposing teams. “It’s very fun here, and exciting,” he says. “Everything is a challenge, and I like a challenge. And the people — they love basketball in the United States.” Morris Morioka is learning the business of basket He is hardly alone in his ball by working as an intern with the Thunder. He international Thunder enthu- dreams of one day running a professional team siasm. Within three seasons, the in Japan. team has inspired a fervent and rapidly growing fan base that spans vast oceans. They might not all speak the same language or share the same customs, but Thunder loyalists know an exciting, play-yourheart-out team when they see one. It turns out Walt Disney was right. It really is a small world, after all.
Andrew and Magda Bartucciotto Perth, Australia
After exchanging nuptials in their western Australia hometown, Andrew and Magda Bartucciotto jetted off to Oklahoma City last autumn to spend part of their honeymoon watching their beloved Thunder play. The couple sat courtside for a game and received a thunderous ovation after smooching on Love’s KissCam. “This is my dream,” Andrew said afterward.
SOCIAL MEDIA In only its third season, the Thunder has rapidly climbed up the NBA’s social media ranks with more than 400,000 followers combined on Facebook and Twitter.
facebook.com/thunderfans L.A. Lakers Boston Celtics Miami Heat Chicago Bulls Orlando Magic Cleveland Cavaliers New York Knicks San Antonio Spurs Denver Nuggets Dallas Mavericks Phoenix Suns
Oklahoma City Thunder Houston Rockets Portland Trail Blazers Detroit Pistons Utah Jazz Toronto Raptors Golden State Warriors Philadelphia 76ers Milwaukee Bucks Sacramento Kings Atlanta Hawks New Jersey Nets Indiana Pacers Minnesota Timberwolves Washington Wizards L.A. Clippers Charlotte Bobcats Memphis Grizzlies New Orleans Hornets
twitter.com/okcthunder L.A. Lakers Orlando Magic Boston Celtics Miami Heat Chicago Bulls New York Knicks Cleveland Cavaliers Phoenix Suns San Antonio Spurs Dallas Mavericks Houston Rockets Denver Nuggest New Jersey Nets Utah Jazz
Oklahoma City Thunder
Maxime Poumerol Nantes, France
In the French port city of Nantes, Maxime Poumerol harbors dreams of one day seeing Thunder Basketball in person. “Perhaps when I have a job I can discover the United States and see a Thunder game,” says the 15-yearold. “There is a collective spirit that’s so impressive. They play together, and it’s spectacular.”
L.A. Clippers Portland Trail Blazers Toronto Raptors Philadelphia 76ers Detroit Pistons New Orleans Hornets Washington Wizards Golden State Warriors Sacramento Kings Memphis Grizzlies Milwaukee Bucks Atlanta Hawks Indiana Pacers Charlotte Bobcats Minnesota Timberwolves
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I now live in China and do my best to keep up with the games. Thank goodness for technology!” — Lacie Marie Shanghai, China
Dr. Lori Leidig Tågarp, Sweden Lori Leidig was visiting her brother in Oklahoma City last spring when she found herself Thunder-struck. “The three or four weeks at his house, he took me to all the home games,” says the retired psychiatrist. “It was awesome. Your players … love what they are doing. That transfers to the crowd.”
Steven Uyanto
Tangerang, Indonesia Fourteen-year-old Steven Uyanto was drawn to the Thunder for two reasons. “There are two young people that inspire me in my life: Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook,” he says. “They’re just simply the best.”
Mads Lingskov
Copenhagen, Denmark
Brad Topp-Lowe Kangaroo Flat, Australia There are challenges in being a Thunder fan off in the rustic Australian hamlet of Kangaroo Flat. But schoolteacher Brad Topp-Lowe is nothing if not resourceful. “I put the game-cast on and sneak a look on my laptop every few minutes while teaching,” he confesses.
“I really want to visit Oklahoma, just to watch the Thunder play live,” says Mads Lingskov. Until then, however, the dunk-dreaming Dane will be content catching the team via the Internet. “Whenever I can watch basketball, I do,” he says. “Over the last year, I watched Thunder games as often as I could.”
Lacie Marie
Shanghai, China Oklahoma born-andbred Lacie Marie is far from her native Norman, but that hasn’t kept the 26-year-old model from cheering on her hometown heroes. “I now live in China and do my best to keep up with the games,” she says. “Thank goodness for technology!” CONTINUED ON PAGE 65
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W h at i s t h e t h u n d e r K i d s C l u b ? A unique way for kids, ages 4-14, to be part of the Thunder experience 2011 MeMbership benefits • 2011 edition Rumble bobblehead • The Story of Rumble the Bison • Rumble hat • Thunder lunch bag • Membership card • Kids Club lanyard • Complimentary Thunder home game ticket • Invitation to the Thunder Kids Club spring event with player appearances additional benefits • 20% on Rumble appearances, Thunder dance clinic and youth basketball camps • 10% discount on regularly priced youth merchandise at the Thunder Shop • Discounted admission at White Water Bay and Frontier City • Free admission at Science Museum Oklahoma every Tuesday (*with a paid adult admission) E-mail KidsClub@thunder-nba.CoM for more information on purchasing your membership.
thunder.nba.CoM
Silvia Moresi
Baden, Switzerland Forget everything you know about Swiss neutrality. Silvia Moresi isn’t shy about her allegiance to the Thunder and her favorite player (and fellow countryman), Thabo Sefolosha. Last fall, she traveled to Oklahoma to catch the Thunder. “It’s much different to see a game live,” remarks Silvia. “Someone really has no idea how loud the audience can be.”
THUNDER.NBA.COM VISITOR SNAPSHOT The blue road jerseys say Oklahoma City across the front, but the Thunder is popular with fans all around the world. Since Oct. 1, more than 3 million people have visited THUNDER.NBA.COM and viewed more than 11 million pages. Source: Ominture
VISITORS BY COUNTRY
Raphaël Ledormeur Caen, France
From the beaches of Normandy, Raphaël Ledormeur daydreams about one day crossing the Atlantic to see his cherished Thunder play. “I really appreciate their love for the game,” says the 24-year-old fan. “They’ve done a great job making their basketball a sport with true team spirit.”
Cornelia Dethmann Straelen, Germany
Cornelia Dethmann spent six months in Crescent, Okla., as a foreign exchange student. It didn’t take long for her to discover the appeal of Thunder Basketball. “Great experience!” she says of the games she attended. “Keep fighting!”
United States
Philippines
Canada
Australia
Spain
Italy
Germany
France
United Kingdom
Turkey
Other
VISITORS BY REGION
Joel Ashbee
Vancouver, Canada Canadian Joel Ashbee is proud of his adopted team and lets the world know all about it — once a week, that is. He and longtime friend Brad Thomas, who now lives in Oklahoma, air a weekly podcast called ThunderGround Radio, in which the chums chat up all things Thunder. “The Thunder organization is amazing,” gushes Joel. “They make you feel proud to cheer for them as a fan.”
Oklahoma
(Manila) Philippines
Texas
California
New York
Ontario (Canada)
Illinois
Florida
Washington
Georgia
Other
Source: Ominture
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ALEXIS
ASHLEY
BONNIE
BRITTANY
BROOKE
HAYLEY
HELEN
JADA
JESSICA
KELSEY
KELSEY
KODIE
LATESHIA
LIL
MARISA
RIANE
SHEREKA
SHERI
SHONNA
For information on your Thunder Girls or to schedule an appearance, please visit
THuNDER.NBA.COM
TwITTER.COM/ THuNDERgIRLS
fACEBOOK.COM/ THuNDERgIRLSfANS
’ Services Provided to the
Call to make an appointment today (405) 767-0900 1901 NW Expressway, Suite 2067 OKC, OK 73118 Upper Level Penn Square Mall
2011 OklahOma City thunder S u m m e r B a S k e t B a l l d ay C a m p S
2011 OklahOma City thunder S u m m e r B a S k e t B a l l d ay C a m p S presented by
9AM-2:30PM, $225/$180* This camp will focus on the fundamentals of basketball, along with an emphasis on key character lessons of teamwork, sportsmanship and respect. *Boys and girls ages 5-16. Campers will be separated by gender, age and ability whenever possible. Receive a 20% discount if you are a Season Ticket Member or a Kids Club Member.
❑ m O n d ay - F r i d ay June 6th-10th Mid-America Christian University 3500 S.W. 119th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73170
❑ m O n d ay - F r i d ay June 20th-24th Boys and Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County - Memorial Park Club 3535 N. Western Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73118
❑ m O n d ay - F r i d ay J u ly 1 8 t h - 2 2 n d Transformation Fitness Center 14701 N. Kelly Ave. Edmond, OK 73013
❑ m O n d ay - F r i d ay June 13th-17th Santa Fe Family Life Center 6300 N. Santa Fe Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73118
❑ m O n d ay - F r i d ay J u ly 1 1 t h - 1 5 t h Casady School 9500 N. Pennsylvania Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120
❑ m O n d ay - F r i d ay a u g u S t 8 t h - 1 2t h Transformation Fitness Center 14701 N. Kelly Ave. Edmond, OK 73013
REgistRation includEs a thundER Youth BaskEtBall t-shiRt, a thundER hEadBand, a thundER BaskEtBall and a tickEt to a futuRE thundER gamE.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT THUNDER YOUTH BASKETBALL, LOCATED UNDER THE COMMUNITY TAB, ON thunder.nBa.COm
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Thunder games and events often are the place to be in Oklahoma City. And we have the pictures to prove it. From the faces in the crowd to the games themselves, from the national halftime acts that perform in the arena to the hijinks of our Thunder entertainers, our photographers keep a lens (or two) on their surroundings. Enjoy. (1) Kevin Durant leads a group of kids through a skills clinic during a Season Ticket Member event in the Oklahoma City Arena. 2
(2) Nine-year-old Addison Baker of Norman sings the national anthem.
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(3) A sure sign in Oklahoma City: Thunder love.
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(4) Faces painted, these two enjoy some pre-game cotton candy.
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(1) James Harden makes a connection with a young fan.
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( 2) Former OU and current Cincinnati Bengals tight end Jermaine Gresham watches the action. (3) A group of visiting students from Japan shows their love for Thunder Basketball. (4) The scoreboard says it all: Thunder wins!
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(5) New England Patriots receiver and Oklahoma native Wes Welker throws an autographed football into the stands. (6) Two-time World Series champion and five-time All-Star Joe Carter goes into his windup. (7) This young fan gets ready for the game by reading Thunder Magazine!
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(1) The view is always better atop Dad’s shoulders. (2) This young fan brings some defensive intensity to a skills clinic during a Season Ticket Member event. (3) There’s one in every crowd – a dancing, T-shirt-waving fan. (4) The Thunder Girls! (5) Even as a doll, Rumble steals the show.
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(6) Former OU and current St. Louis Rams quarterback Sam Bradford waves to the crowd during a break in the action.
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9 (7) REO Speedwagon lead singer Kevin Cronin takes in a Thunder game. (8) Rumble pops a wheelie following a Thunder win. (9) A ball rack serves as a nice rest stop for this young fan.
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ELBOW ROOM Serge Ibaka and Lakers center Andrew Bynum form a ‘V’ with their elbows during a jump ball. ‘Where Amazing Happens’, indeed. Photo by ANGELA ROWE / THUNDER PHOTO
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