01
TABLE OF CONTENTS MILES OF SMILES
04
FOUNDATION
16
EDUCATION
24 HEALTHY & VIBRANT COMMUNITIES
33 40
WORKPLACE DEVELOPMENT BASIC NEEDS
46 INCLUSION
52
OUR MISSION
A COLLECTIVE COMMITMENT Our commitment comes to life in many ways. The continued growth of the Thunder Community Foundation has strengthened our ability to invest directly in nonprofit organizations addressing critical challenges across our state. At the same time, our players, coaches, and staff continue to engage and make a difference through action and connection.
To build, enhance, and sustain a professional, fan-oriented organization that provides an engaging NBA experience, first-class guest service and meaningful community leadership.
We are deeply grateful to every nonprofit partner, corporate partner, donor, and fan who makes this work possible. Meaningful change is never achieved alone. It is built through trusted partnerships, shared purpose, and a collective commitment to strengthening the communities we call home.
CHAIRMAN & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Clayton I. Bennett BOARD OF DIRECTORS George B. Kaiser G. Jeffrey Records Jr. William M. Cameron Robert E. Howard II Jay Scaramucci Everett R. Dobson EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL MANAGER Sam Presti EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER Danny Barth THUNDER COMMUNITY FOUNDATION BOARD Erin Oldfield, Executive Director Danny Barth, Advisory Brian Byrnes, Advisory Stacy Blomstrom Gayle Maxwell Hakeem Onafowokan Megan Salomone Jessica Musgrove
COMMUNITY HAS ALWAYS BEEN at the heart of who we are. Every day, we have the privilege of using the Oklahoma City Thunder platform to bring people together, strengthen communities, and create opportunities that extend beyond the game. This report reflects the collective efforts of the Thunder organization and our ongoing commitment to Oklahoma communities. Over the past year, we have sharpened our focus around four key pillars: Education, Healthy & Vibrant Communities, Workforce Development, and Basic Needs. By aligning our resources with these priorities, we are working to create lasting outcomes while remaining responsive to the evolving needs of our neighbors.
As you read this report, we hope you see more than the program results we’ve achieved this past year. We hope you see the power of partnership, the strength of our community, and the lives touched through collective action. Most of all, we hope you see what can happen when we come together with a shared purpose. Thank you for being part of this journey. Onward!
Erin Oldfield Vice President, Community Engagement & Executive Director, Thunder Community Foundation
OPENING ILLUSTRATION Thunder TAG artist Taylor Clark Taylor Clark embodies the spirit of the Thunder Artist Group (TAG), a skilled group of Oklahoma artists commissioned to create various forms of artwork for Thunder events, programs and select promotions. Clark, an Oklahoma City native and University of Central Oklahoma graduate, created the giant Thunder ball that was part of the NBA’s ‘30 Rocks’ exhibit at Rockefeller Plaza in October to celebrate the league’s return to NBC. That piece is now on display at the Oklahoma Pavilion as part of the Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C. That was the beginning of a busy and high-profile year for Clark. She was a featured artist
in the Thunder’s first Art & Sole fundraising event in March, and also created the live painting at the Continental Coliseum naming rights celebration later that month. Illustration inspiration, in her words: “The artwork is a visual rhythm of connection. Flowing forms rise from the heart of Oklahoma City, representing the ripple effect created when people show up with an open heart and invest in one another. Grounded in Thunder colors and Oklahoma landmarks, the composition reflects the power of community to create lasting impact.”
16,297 MILES OF SMILES We diligently logged the number of miles traveled this season by our players and staff to bring the Thunder experience to individuals, groups and communities throughout the state. The final numbers tell a story, but it’s the outpouring of love from those we touched that paints the bigger picture. * Mileage recorded from June 28, 2025 to May 31, 2026
04
05
MILES OF SMILES
JUNE-AUGUST
2025
June 28 An annual tradition, Thunder ‘Community Draft Picks’ joined rookies Thomas Sorber and Brooks Barnhizer for their public introduction to OKC and the media. The Thunder honored four young leaders: Angelo Christian West (FACT), Elizabeth James (Science Museum Oklahoma, teen apprentice leader), Carson Buckley (Infant Crisis Services teen board member) and Mia Jacobs (YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City teen leadership council).
Aug. 13 The Thunder and Oklahoma City Public Schools consistently work together to welcome teachers and students back to the classroom.
Program
Miles
Events
Book Bus
1338
18
Youth Basketball
2205.6
10
OG&E Thunderbolt 1549
9
Misc. Programs
2
06 5115.6
TOTAL MILES
23
TOTAL EVENTS
39
TOTAL MILES TO DATE
SEPTEMBER Sept. 13 Ajay Mitchell joins the fun as a skills instructor and coach during the third annual Youth Media Day, presented by Love’s Travel Stops.
Sept. 25 Cason Wallace helps Skyline Urban Ministries raise awareness about hunger in the community. Wallace was joined by Lu Dort, Ajay Mitchell and Aaron Wiggins.
Program
Miles
Events
Book Bus
650
11
Player / Team
76.8
4
OG&E Thunderbolt 267
8
Misc. Programs
29
133
TOTAL MILES
TOTAL EVENTS
1126.8
52
TOTAL EVENTS TO DATE TOTAL MILES TO DATE
07
OCTOBER
Oct. 16 Chet Holmgren works with Wings Special Needs Community staff to help fill emergency food kits for clients of Palomar.
Oct. 19 Nikola Topic and teammates opened the doors to the ION practice facility to welcome five youth whose resilience and character shined bright in overcoming a series of obstacles. The five kids watched practice, met General Manager Sam Presti and staff, joined a group huddle at center court and took photos with the players.
Program
Miles
Events
Book Bus
474
10
Youth Basketball
244
2
OG&E Thunderbolt 22
6
Player / Team
49
2
Misc. Programs
37.2
24
Reading Timeouts
24.8
1
TOTAL MILES
TOTAL EVENTS
851
45
Oct. 23 Thunder Girls Brooklyn and Eliza led Harding Charter Prep students through a Reading Timeout, presented by American Fidelity. Each student took home a copy of the book.
TOTAL EVENTS TO DATE TOTAL MILES TO DATE
NOVEMBER
Nov. 25 Alex Caruso, Jaylin Williams, and Cason Wallace connected with kids during the annual All-Team Thanksgiving, held this year at City Rescue Mission. The evening included dinner, various games, and arts and crafts.
Nov. 18 Rumble takes a selfie with his new friend made during the annual Homeland Turkey Giveaway at the downtown YMCA.
Program
Miles
Events
Book Bus
419
7
Youth Basketball
340
2
OG&E Thunderbolt 167
1
Player / Team
72.2
6
Misc. Programs
46.4
3
Reading Timeouts
43.8
1
TOTAL MILES
TOTAL EVENTS
1088.4
20
TOTAL EVENTS TO DATE TOTAL MILES TO DATE
DECEMBER Dec. 6 Shai Gilgeous-Alexander hosted a holiday party at Oklahoma Children’s Hospital OU Health, complete with crafts, photos and gifts.
Dec. 20 Isaiah Hartenstein helps his shopping buddy make her way to the check out line. Hartenstein treated kids from the Boys and Girls Club to a holiday shopping spree.
Dec. 1 What better way to start the annual 12 Days of Giving than with a stop at Christmas Connection? Presented by Sprite, the Thunder Community Engagement team made stops to 12 nonprofit community partners from Dec. 1-19 to drop off essentials and spread holiday cheer.
Dec. 4 With shopping cart in hands, Kenrich Williams leads the way to begin the biggest Thunder tradition: the annual All-Team Holiday Shopping Spree. This is an all-team, all-hands-on-deck outing. Players were paired with kids from Sunbeam Family Services’ Grandparents Raising Grandchildren program to shop for gifts while their grandparents shopped with Thunder Girls. With shopping carts — and hearts — full, the families meet up and head home, basking in the opportunity.
Dec. 21 Ajay Mitchell made a lasting impression with his Special Olympics Holiday Clinic at the Blue ION. The event included warmups, drills, and a scrimmage.
Program
Miles
Events
Book Bus
397
6
Youth Basketball
236
2
OG&E Thunderbolt 232
4
Player / Team
91.6
4
Misc. Programs
382.8
14
Reading Timeouts
44
2
TOTAL MILES
TOTAL EVENTS
1383.4
32
TOTAL EVENTS TO DATE TOTAL MILES TO DATE
JANUARY 2026
Jan. 10 Branden Carlson preps a rose for placement in a floral arrangement during a stop at Curbside Flowers, a “full-service flower shop bringing beauty to our community while providing employment and training to people transitioning out of homelessness in OKC.” Carlson was joined by Kenrich Williams and Cason Wallace. The trio worked alongside staff to organize bouquets and visit with customers.
Jan. 30 This Reading Timeout, presented by American Fidelity, is like no other in the series. Rumble shared the “Story of Rumble” with students at Shedeck Elementary in Yukon. While Rumble obviously did not read aloud, he certainly paid close attention to every word.
Jan. 8 The Rolling Thunder Book Bus, presented by American Fidelity, celebrated a big milestone with students at Buchanan Elementary in OKC: 250,000 free books distributed to kids since the bus debuted in Feb. 2009. The special afternoon included a school-wide assembly and, appropriately, a free book for each kid to take home.
Program
Miles
Events
Book Bus
47.2
2
Youth Basketball
212
1
Player / Team
32.2
4
Misc. Programs
53.6
5
Reading Timeouts
36
1
TOTAL MILES
TOTAL EVENTS
381
13
TOTAL EVENTS TO DATE TOTAL MILES TO DATE
FEBRUARY
Feb. 7 Preparing to warm up for the night’s game against the Houston Rockets, Isaiah Joe first stops by to reconnect with Make-A-Wish guests Jackson and Christian. The two teens, from Florida and Pennsylvania, spent a weekend in OKC attending practice, the game and going bowling with Thunder players.
Feb. 21 Thomas Sorber wraps up a special day for both player and the young fan following a Homeland Shopping Spree. Another staple in the Thunder community programs, Homeland Stores and Thunder players join forces to treat local families to shop for groceries and household essentials four times a year.
Program
Miles
Events
Book Bus
674.9
9
Youth Basketball
32
1
OG&E Thunderbolt 183
1
Player / Team
53
4
Misc. Programs
642.6
10
Reading Timeouts
13.8
1
TOTAL MILES
TOTAL EVENTS
1599.3
26
Feb. 6 The Thunder introduced a new program for its education platform with tipoff events in Tulsa and Oklahoma City. Thunder AI Scholars is a pilot program designed for high school students, and is taught by instructors from Inspirit AI over a seven-week period. Open to students from OKC and Tulsa public schools, the Google-supported program, helps students explore the foundations of machine learning and more in the fields of sports and motion sciences.
TOTAL EVENTS TO DATE TOTAL MILES TO DATE
MARCH-APRIL
April 22 Jared McCain welcomes Seth Viher of Edmonton, Alberta to OKC for his Make-A-Wish visit. His wish was to sit courtside for a Thunder game. The players took it upon themselves to exceed his expectations, stopping by to say hello and take pictures with him following warm-ups.
March 26
March 6 Payton Sandfort helps a child narrow down his options for the free book to take home during a Rolling Thunder Book Bus stop at Will Rogers Elementary in Edmond. The Book Bus is presented by American Fidelity.
Program
Miles
Events
Book Bus
428
6
Youth Basketball
114
3
OG&E Thunderbolt 737
5
Player / Team
104.2
4
Misc. Programs
278.8
6
Reading Timeouts
38.8
1
TOTAL MILES
TOTAL EVENTS
1700.8
25
The public was invited to attend, and watch via YouTube, a special and historic day for OKC: the official groundbreaking event of the new Continental Coliseum. The ceremonial “first dig” included Thunder Chairman Clay Bennett, Executive Vice President and General Manager Sam Presti, Continental Resources Founder and Chairman Emeritus Harold Hamm, Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt, project architect David Manica and other executives and city officials. The new arena is scheduled to open in the fall of 2028.
TOTAL EVENTS TO DATE TOTAL MILES TO DATE
MAY
May 12 ‘Paint Your Ride’ has become a recent springtime fixture in OKC. Thunder Entertainers work together to Thunder UP vehicles for the road ahead, using washable markers to create slogans and Thunder car flags to leave no doubt serious Thunder fans are on board. This year, with four vehicle bays open at Mathis Home, the crew Thunder-upped more than 850 cars, and one school bus in just over three hours.
May 8 Thunder UP in the Park is perfect for fans of all ages. From youth zone activities to face painting; from live music and performances by your favorite Thunder entertainers, this is a pregame party fans don’t want to miss.
May 19 Makeia Brune, a fourth-grade student from Waynoka Elementary, is presented with her custom Thunder jersey. Makeia was one of nearly 9,000 students across the state to participate in Thunder Math Hoops, presented by Devon Energy. Makeia was selected from the 19 students who earned nominations to represent Oklahoma at the NBA Math Hoops Global Championship in late June in New York City.
Program
Miles
Events
Book Bus
597
10
Court Dedications
188
2
OG&E Thunderbolt 554
6
Player / Team
104.2
4
Misc. Programs
1607.6
6
TOTAL MILES
TOTAL EVENTS
3,050.8
28
TOTAL EVENTS TO DATE TOTAL MILES TO DATE
THUNDER COMMUNITY
FOUNDATION
FOUNDATION
GIVING SPIRIT
Thunder Community Foundation Awards $100,000 in Grants to Youth-Focused Nonprofits on ‘Giving Tuesday’ One year ago, the Thunder Community Foundation began a new chapter with a vision to expand our impact and create more opportunities for youth across Oklahoma. Guided by our mission, we have worked alongside our board, staff, and community partners to outline new key priorities for the future – education, healthy and vibrant communities, workforce development and basic needs.
“We’re really excited to put $100,000 back into the community,” said Erin Oldfield, Thunder Vice President of Community Engagement and Executive Director of the Foundation. Announced on Giving Tuesday, these grants reflect the generosity, collaboration, and community spirit that define Oklahoma. Each organization received funding in recognition of its meaningful impact on youth and families across the state. Pivot Executive Director, Jennifer Goodrich, shared: “I’m pinching myself. I can’t believe this is really happening.” The work of the Foundation is made possible through the support of our fans, community, and corporate partners, whose generosity helps us expand our impact and invest in Oklahoma’s future.
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
This year marked an important milestone with the launch of the Foundation’s inaugural grant cohort. On Dec. 2, Giving Tuesday, the Thunder Community Foundation awarded $25,000 grants to four youth-focused nonprofits: Pivot, Junior Achievement of Oklahoma, Cleats for Kids, and Urban Bridge.
17
OUR WORK
MISSION STATEMENT The Thunder Community Foundation is a registered 501©3 organization and the official team charity of the Oklahoma City Thunder. Its mission is to positively impact youth in the communities where they live and play.
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LEARNING & TECHNOLOGY RENOVATIONS The Thunder believes in the power of sports to transform lives. Since 2009, the Foundation has provided financial resources to renovate spaces for nonprofits that serve youth. These renovated spaces expand opportunities for academic enrichment such as reading, STEM, creative arts, and other essential services in underserved areas.
COMMUNITY BASKETBALL COURTS The Foundation has installed or refurbished 31 basketball courts in 17 counties across Oklahoma. Thunder community courts provide unlimited access to the game of basketball.
ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT
THUNDER FELLOWS
The Foundation is redefining education programs and partnerships in the community with the belief that innovative pathways in education are critical for preparing students to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Thunder Fellows aims to unlock new opportunities in sports and entertainment for Tulsa-area high school and Oklahoma-area college students.
THUNDER AI SPORTS SCHOLARS
COMMUNITY GRANTS
In 2026, the Foundation launched Thunder AI Sports Scholars, supported by Google to introduce high school students to the exciting intersection of artificial intelligence, data science, and athletics.
The Foundation directs its grantmaking to Oklahoma nonprofit organizations that provide direct services to youth.
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ART & SOLE Where Creativity Meets the Culture
The Thunder Community Foundation stepped onto the social scene in March with its inaugural fundraising event, Art & Sole. The event, held inside Paycom Center on the Thunder court and featuring the visual wizardry of the ThunderVision screens, blended contemporary art, sneaker culture, and community impact into one unforgettable night. Art & Sole featured a curated art auction made up of oneof-a-kind works by artists from the Thunder Artist Group, alongside craft cocktails, elevated small bites, and an atmosphere rooted in Thunder culture. The evening also included an MVP walk-in experience presented by Pella of Oklahoma. All proceeds benefit the Thunder Community Foundation, helping fund programs that positively impact youth across Oklahoma.
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21
22
FOUNDATION
The Thunder Community Foundation raises funds to strengthen communities across Oklahoma through programs that support youth, education, and families in need. Through fan-driven initiatives like auctions, raffles, buy-it-now memorabilia, direct donations, and special events such as Art & Sole, every contribution helps turn the passion of Thunder fans into meaningful community impact.
TOTAL
$865,451.64
DONATE
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
HOW WE SUPPORT THE MISSION
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EDUCATION
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
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EDUCATION
MATH HOOPS Presented by Devon Energy
Building confidence through basketball statistics Thunder Math Hoops is a fast-paced board game and mobile app that teaches students fundamental math skills through the basketball statistics of their favorite NBA and WNBA players.
Makeia Brune, who in May completed fourth grade at Waynoka Elementary, will represent Oklahoma at the NBA Math Hoops Global Championship in New York June 22-25. Makeia is the youngest student selected to represent Oklahoma at the tournament in the five years the Thunder has sponsored this program.
A CLOSER LOOK
9K
students across Oklahoma participated in Thunder Math Hoops in the 2025-26 school year
11.8 M
math problems were completed.
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Oklahoma students received Global Championship nominations; Eight Oklahoma teachers received Learn Fresh Outstanding Educator nominations.
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
The Math Hoops curriculum is tied to Common Core State Standards and 21st Century Skills. It has been shown to improve students’ grasp of statistics and interpersonal skills, helping them to collaborate more effectively with their peers. An appreciation and understanding of math helps propel students to become passionate, self-directed learners, and sets them up for success in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
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EDUCATION
THUNDER EXPLORERS
ts st u d e n t o g e t in g w h e n sy a e n " I t ’s so a b o u t le a r u n d e r a n d h e x c it e d n t io n t h e T e e t b a ll � you m t o b a skn b o a r d s n o ss o le r e la t e s r e a ll y g e t a r n � " le id The k d want to an
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
26
“ Thun I apprecia d teach er gives te that t h b e but t rs not ju ack to sc e st fin ience h r o u that gh a a ca cu ncially scienc n help su rriculum � p e in Oklah plement oma. er ” th e Th un d y ed us ve ha an “I m r fo es ng al le Ex pl or er s ch st ud en ts ge t th e ye ar s� Th e w he n I an no un ce m os t ex ci te d ng th e Th un d er w e ar e d oi ng e� ” ch al le
Presented by Devon Energy
Inspiring future problem-solvers, creative thinkers The Devon Thunder Explorers is a free, standards-aligned STEM program designed to inspire the next generation of problem-solvers and creative thinkers in Oklahoma classrooms. Registered fourth- through sixth-grade teachers receive monthly basketball-themed STEM activities and can submit photos or videos of their students completing the challenges for a chance to win $500 for their classrooms. Four classrooms are recognized each month for outstanding participation, with winning teachers receiving $500 for STEM supplies, and students receiving Thunder prizes and certificates. Created by Science Museum Oklahoma’s educators and aligned with academic standards, each activity encourages students to experiment, explore, and think outside the box. From engineering challenges to physics in action, every lesson connects science with real-world fun.
EDUCATION
SEASON IMPACT READING TIMEOUTS Programs presented by American Fidelity
(Oct. 1, 2025 – March 30, 2026)
266
17,194
REGISTERED TEACHERS
REGISTERED STUDENTS
139
199
COMMUNITIES REACHED
UNIQUE SCHOOLS REGISTERED
Zip Codes Statewide
431
Each school year, another longtime community staple plays out in elementary school settings throughout the metro. Thunder staff and personalities like Paris Lawson visit K-5 classrooms for a Thunder Reading Timeout. The special guests read a book carefully selected for the occasion to the kids, who also receive a free copy of the book to take home.
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
STUDENT PARTICIPATION
112 93 61 5th GRADE
6th GRADE
$108,000 10
CLASSROOM PRIZE MONEY AWARDED
YEARS IN EXISTENCE
TEACHER GAME OF THE
OKC Thunder and American Fidelity Assurance Company partner together to honor teachers in the state of Oklahoma during each regular season home game. Each teacher is the "Teacher of the Year" in their respective school districts, which is voted on in that district.
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
4th GRADE
27
CHALLENGE ACCEPTED! EDUCATION
THUNDER READING CHALLENGE Presented by American Fidelity
Oklahoma Second-Grade Students Log More Than 4.25 Million Reading Minutes The Thunder Reading Challenge is a fixture of our commitment to education, with roots dating back to our inaugural 2008-09 season. Presented by American Fidelity, the annual challenge opens in early October with the goal to foster a lifelong love for reading.
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
28
The statewide challenge made an operational shift for the 2025-26 school year, with entry available only to secondgrade students. More than 300 classrooms across Oklahoma competed for monthly prizes based on total average reading minutes. Judging by the results, the program found its sweet spot. More than 11,000 students participated in the six-month challenge. Combined, the registered boys and girls logged more than 4.25 million reading minutes.
Rollingwood Elementary claimed the top prize with a combined total of 792,000 minutes read, or 13,200 hours. The students’ effort earned the school $5,000 – the school has hopes to purchase a book vending machine – plus a Thunder-themed assembly-turned-dance party complete with Rumble and Thunder entertainers. Afterwards, the celebration continued with Pizza Hut pizza and cookies to celebrate the students’ accomplishments.
EDUCATION
INSPIRING LEADER ROLLINGWOOD ELEMENTARY STEM TEACHER
CATHY WADE
I first heard about the Thunder Reading Challenge through participation with the Oklahoma City Thunder programs such as the Devon Explorers (the monthly STEM challenges). This was our first year to participate at Rollingwood, and the students immediately connected with the joy of reading for a team goal while also representing their school.
Were the kids excited from the start, or was it a gradual buildup of reading interest? If so, do you remember when it ‘clicked’ and they started piling up the minutes? The excitement definitely grew over time. At first, students were excited about the Thunder connection and prizes, but after a few weeks it became something bigger. They started encouraging each other, asking daily about minutes, and celebrating milestones together. I think it really “clicked” once they realized their reading could directly help the school climb the leaderboard. After that, the minutes started piling up quickly because the students truly bought into it as a team effort.
How long have you been teaching? Is there something special about this particular group that produced such impressive results together? This is my third year teaching overall and my first year at Rollingwood Elementary as the STEM teacher. What made this group special was their energy, teamwork, and pride in their school. They genuinely celebrated each other’s success. We have a very supportive school culture, and these students were motivated not just by rewards but by the feeling of accomplishing something together. That sense of community made a huge difference in this competition.
What was the rest of Monday like for the kids? A parade down the hall, Rumble in their gym, gifts, a dance party and a pizza party, that’s not their typical Monday …is it? It was definitely not a typical Monday! The students were beyond excited. Having a parade through the halls, seeing Rumble in the gym, receiving gifts, dancing together, and ending with Pizza Hut pizza and cookie cake made the entire day unforgettable for them. You could feel the absolute love and pride throughout the building. For many students, it created a core memory tied directly to reading and school success, which is incredibly powerful.
Can you describe how the Reading Challenge helps spark a child’s interest in reading? Do you think it will carry over into the summer and beyond? I think the Reading Challenge sparks interest in reading because it makes reading feel exciting, social, and achievable. Students see reading as something celebrated rather than just assigned. It gives them ownership and creates positive associations with books. Many students discovered genres, series, or authors they genuinely enjoyed during the challenge. I hope that this carries into summer and beyond because they now connect reading with confidence, fun, and accomplishment instead of just an obligation.
Finally, about petitioning the library to allow students to check out more books: Is that true? Yes, the library petition is true! The students became very passionate about wanting more time, books, and opportunities to read. When kids get excited enough about reading to advocate for their library, I think that says everything about the impact the challenge had on them.
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
How, and when, did you hear about the Thunder Reading Challenge? Is this your first experience with it?
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EDUCATION
THUNDER THURSDAY
FOURTH-GRADE TRIO STATES THEIR CASE COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
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Max, Nick and Hayes are typical fourth grade boys with a passion for Thunder Basketball. The trio proudly wear their Thunder gear, can rapidly name off the roster and can recall and recite game highlights. So when an assignment was presented to Northwood Elementary students to write a persuasive essay about a topic they are passionate about, the boys went to work. Three essays, one common goal to pitch to school administrators: Make Thunder Thursdays official.
“They wanted to build better community at the school and represent the Thunder,” Principal Brandi Skokowski said. “Once we decided that yes, we would move forward with Thunder Thursday, they got to present their idea at our schoolwide assembly. “The kids have loved it. We have so many kids wearing Thunder, so many teachers wearing Thunder and getting involved. It’s really exciting,” she said.
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EDUCATION
Presented by American Fidelity
ROLLING THUNDER
BOOK BUS
Developing a love for reading, one free book at a time The Rolling Thunder Book Bus is a statewide outreach program that inspires children, grades kindergarten to fifth grade, to develop a love for reading. The Book Bus is a truck and custom-built trailer that carries more than 2,000 fiction and nonfiction books. Once inside, kids search the colorful shelves for one free book to take home. They’ll also find a locker with player autographs, a jersey, player shoes, and Thunder swag.
BOOKS DONATED
VISITS
DISTINCT ZIP CODES
DISTINCT CITIES
13,211 105 48
22
ALL TIME COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
32
253,486 3,258 BOOKS DONATED
VISITS
HEALTHY & VIBRANT
COMMUNITIES
33
HEALTHY & VIBRANT COMMUNITIES
WONDER ROOMS
Presented by Google
Fueling kids’ dreams ‘beyond their expectations’ In an effort to promote STEM education, reading, and mindfulness among school-aged children, the Thunder Community Foundation, supported by Google, has developed and introduced three Thunder Wonder Rooms in the past two years with ribbon-cutting ceremonies in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, with plans for more. These specialized, modernized learning and play spaces are tailored to inspire and empower students’ interests in science, technology, engineering, and math while serving as an interactive hub for after-school and summer programs. Key amenities include:
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
34
STEM ZONES
Computers, tablets, and robotics or tech stations.
READING NOOKS
Specially selected books and comfortable seating areas.
MINDFULNESS & CHILL AREAS
Dedicated spaces with new furniture and fresh paint designed to give kids a quiet place to focus, decompress, and feel safe.
“This room is going to allow our boys and girls to dream beyond their expectations, beyond their circumstances, and really that’s what it’s all about,” Tim Newton, Executive Director of the Tulsa Dream Center, said after the March dedication.
HEALTHY & VIBRANT COMMUNITIES
COMMUNITY Programs presented by OG&E
TICKET PROGRAM Working Together to Expand the Game Experience The mission is simple: Working together, the Thunder and OG&E want to make the live game experience available to as many fans as possible. The Community Ticket Program distributed 4,300 free tickets and an accompanying food voucher to 123 organizations to attend a Thunder game during the 2025-26 season. More than 560 applications were submitted by schools, teams or nonprofit community partners.
SAFETY PARTNER The Thunder and OG&E are proud to partner to recognize local emergency personnel who embody our values of Teamwork, Integrity, Public Service, Individual Safety, and Well-being. The OG&E Safety Partner program recognizes first responders who make a lasting impact in communities across Oklahoma and the surrounding region. Over nine seasons, 49 firefighters, police officers and EMS personnel representing 39 communities have been honored through the program. The six honorees recognized this past season were representatives of five different Oklahoma communities.
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
The experience goes beyond attending an NBA game. It’s the chance to reconnect and enjoy a night together. For community partners, it’s a chance to reward clients and staff.
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THUNDEROUS APPLAUSE
HEALTHY & VIBRANT COMMUNITIES
Oklahoma Ford Dealers Hero of the Game
Five deployments, two Purple Hearts, one big Thunder hug
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
36
Jerome Jackson embodies the spirit of the Oklahoma Ford Dealers Hero of the Game program, a fact Thunder fans emotionally celebrated Feb. 7 during his on-court recognition as part of a nationally televised matinee game against the Houston Rockets. Jackson proudly served in the United States Army from 2006 to 2021, retiring with the rank of sergeant first class. Over the course of his distinguished career, he completed five deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. His service and dedication earned him numerous honors, including the Special Forces tab, the Meritorious Service medal, two Purple Hearts, and the German Armed Forces Proficiency badge.
Jackson’s military career took him around the world, with assignments in Germany, Hawaii, Fort Bragg, Tokyo, and Fort Bliss. He also trained foreign troops in Tactical Combat Casualty Care across Brunei, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Australia, making a lasting impact well beyond our borders. Since retiring from the Army, Jackson continues his commitment to service, giving back to his Altus community and church. He credits his time in the Army for teaching him the values of leadership, teamwork, and service — lessons he carries with him every day. The Thunder and Ford teamed up to honor 11 heroes this past season, bringing the two-year total to 17. Honorees receive a custom Thunder jersey and gift bag during their on-court presentation.
THUNDER COMMUNITY COURTS The Thunder Community Foundation has installed or refurbished 31 basketball courts in 17 counties across Oklahoma. Thunder community courts provide unlimited access to the game of basketball and promote physical activity along with valuable life skills including teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.
Many of these courts have seen up to a decade of play and have become sites for important youth programs and staples in the local neighborhood and community. In 2023, the Foundation and OG&E teamed up to implement a multiyear plan to refurbish and energize community courts for today’s communities and the next generation to enjoy safe play.
HEALTHY & VIBRANT COMMUNITIES
Rumble resumed his annual role as Chair Bison of the Kids Marathon, part of the Thunder’s longstanding partnership with the OKC National Memorial; Museum and the Memorial Marathon. The Kids Marathon was one of six events that attracted nearly 30,000 runners – including a large number of Thunder staff members – from all 50 states and 17 countries.
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
RUN TO REMEMBER
37
HEALTHY & VIBRANT COMMUNITIES COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
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MAKEA-WISH
The Thunder and the Make-A-Wish Foundation have developed an inspiring relationship over the years to create unforgettable, personalized experiences for children facing critical illnesses. This season, the Thunder fulfilled two wishes for three kids: •
In April, Seth Viher, a young Canadian fighting synovial sarcoma, had his wish granted by traveling from Edmonton, Alberta to Oklahoma City to sit courtside during a Thunder playoff game. It was his first NBA game. Seth had the chance to meet his favorite players, including fellow Canadian Shai GilgeousAlexander and Chet Holmgren.
•
In January, Make-A-Wish kids Jackson (from Pennsylvania) and Christian (from Florida) were flown into OKC for a whirlwind weekend with the team. The boys watched a team practice, joined in a team huddle at center court at the ION, bowled with players Brooks Barnhizer and Ajay Mitchell, and watched a game live.
HEALTHY & VIBRANT COMMUNITIES
DREAMS COME TRUE WITH YOUTH MEDIA DAY Presented by Love’s Travel Stops
In the sea of kids seated at center court sits a future player, coach or executive. Those dreams are in the distant future, however. On this September day, the 50-plus kids from YMCAs across the state are about to experience the day in the life as a professional basketball player, and so much more.
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
Thunder guards Ajay Mitchell and Brooks Barnhizer were on hand to put the kids through various skills drills and serve as coaches for the scrimmage game as part of the third annual Youth Media Day. The day also included mock interviews with Thunder broadcast host Paris Lawson, film study with sideline reporter Nick Gallo, and individual photo shoots with Thunder photographers.
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WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT 40
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
CHARGING FORWARD The Thunder, through its Thunder Community Foundation, launched Thunder AI Sports Scholars, supported by Google.
engaging way while reinforcing our broader commitment to education and workforce development in Oklahoma.”
The innovative, project-based learning experience was designed to equip high school students with foundational AI knowledge while encouraging ethical thinking, collaboration and college and career readiness through real-world applications in sports. The curriculum is delivered in partnership with Inspirit AI and is led by instructors educated at Stanford, Harvard, Brown, Princeton, and Penn who are specialists in their respective fields.
As part of the Thunder and Google’s collaboration to accelerate AI in Oklahoma, the seven-week program integrates cutting-edge technology, hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving to help students build creativity, critical thinking, and technical skills needed for future careers. Through interactive lectures, coding labs, and collaborative projects, students explore how machine learning is used to analyze performance in sports and motion sciences.
“As technology continues to shape every industry, it’s critical that students have access to learning experiences that reflect that reality,” said Erin Oldfield, Vice President of Community Engagement and Executive Director of Thunder Community Foundation. “Thunder AI Sports Scholars allows us to introduce students to AI in a meaningful,
The Thunder AI Scholars pilot program started with 112 students from three high schools – one in Oklahoma City, and two in Tulsa. The Thunder plans to expand to more schools in the 2026-27 academic year.
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
New AI Sports Scholars Program Blends Tech, Sports, and Education
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THUNDER FELLOWS
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
UNLOCKING DOORS IN SPORTS, ENTERTAINMENT Tulsa-based after-school program gearing up for sixth year To address the prevalent opportunity and wealth gaps in our community, the Thunder Fellows Program – developed by the Oklahoma City Thunder and Creative Artists Agency (CAA) – aims to unlock new opportunities in sports and entertainment for Tulsa-area high school and Oklahoma-area college students.
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
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Located in the historic Greenwood District, Thunder Fellows applies curriculum uniquely tailored to industries’ standards to gain proficiency in essential skillsets and hands-on experiences highly sought after by recruiters and talent acquisition teams. The free, after-school program also leverages a strategic pipeline of local and national corporations to provide exclusive access to mentors, professional coaching, and meaningful employment opportunities. Thunder Fellows is gearing up for its sixth year. The program was born in the summer of 2020 following a candid conversation between two childhood friends – Thunder Executive Vice President and General Manager Sam Presti and CAA Sports Executive Mike Johnson – and launched eight months later with its first cohort.
Thunder Fellows is supported by the following partners: Google, Devon Energy, Post Oak Toyota and MidFirst Bank.
From Fellows to Thunder intern to NBC Sports, Langston grad blazing trail to dream big Nadia Mooreland credits her time in the Thunder Fellows program for launching her career in sports media. “They saw something in me that, at the time, I didn’t see in myself,” she said. “It was just kind of like a faraway thought and dream.”
PROGRAM AT A GLANCE students completed the signature program over the past five years, including 60 in 2025-26 – 16.9 percent of which were firstgeneration college students
Tulsa-area high schools represented
Oklahoma-area colleges and universities participate: Langston, Northeastern State, Oklahoma City University, Oklahoma State, Oral Roberts, Rogers State, University of Central Oklahoma, University of Oklahoma, University of Tulsa
As a Langston University student and a member of the first college cohort in Fellows history (2023) – Nadia also was an intern in the Thunder business office the summer of 2023 – she learned to dream big with confidence. She returned to Oklahoma City in May to cover the Western Conference finals with NBC Sports as a Social Media Coordinator. “It’s such a full-circle moment,” she said. “It was a whole reunion, a homecoming. Seeing the people that helped me along the way of trying to figure out where exactly my career could go.” “I’m going to put this in basketball terms: Shooters shoot. Go out, chase your dreams, take the big shot, take risks.”
annual hours of programming – 200 for high school students (100 per cohort), 130 for college
Internships secured by Fellows since joining program
STUDENTS’ VOTES ARE IN (based on student assessment surveys)
Favorite subjects AI Fundamentals (74%)
Coincidence growth across key areas •
Demonstrating professional communication and behaviors with adults/professionals
•
Articulating future goals (college and/or career)
•
Taking initiative to start new things
•
Bouncing back after challenges (resilience)
•
Time management and organization contributing positively to their community and serving others
Financial Literacy (74%) Leadership & Community Impact (68%) College Readiness (58%)
Outlook shifts Career goals changed or altered since joining the program (51.2%)
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
168 28 9 330 101
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
‘A FULL-CIRCLE MOMENT’
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Women in Business Summit
MAKING CONNECTIONS, INSPIRING OTHERS Inspired by the mission to strengthen business connections and leadership within Oklahoma, the Oklahoma City Thunder created the Women in Business Summit, presented by MidFirst Bank. The annual event, which debuted in 2022, offers the unique opportunity to celebrate the contributions of women in the workplace and bring professionals together from across industries for a dynamic day of learning, connection, and inspiration inside Paycom Center. Professionals from all industries are invited to engage in valuable learning opportunities from women excelling in their fields, foster meaningful relationships, and gather inspiration
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through the expertise and insights of women in the workforce. Summit highlights include panels featuring executives and business owners, breakout sessions led by local leaders and sponsored by Homeland, and opportunities to connect with a diverse network of professionals. This year, ESPN commentator Holly Rowe was guest speaker. Other featured guests included Lara Krug, Kansas City Chiefs; Dr. Jamie Polk, Oklahoma City Public Schools; Jocelyn Monroe, Kansas City Current; and Christi Woodworth, OG&E. More than 700 guests attended the event, marking the first sell out in event history.
POWER HER FORWARD A six-month mentorship and empowerment program that connects female student-athletes with local, community role models. Through sports, Power Her Forward provides opportunities for young women to stay engaged, build confidence, and be inspired by those who have walked the path before them.
Mission To empower the next generation of leaders by:
Connecting
Providing
high school freshman and sophomore basketball players in OKC with mentors.
structured guidance and inspiration from local female athletes.
Creating
Power Her Forward aims to increase confidence and leadership skills for participants, sustain engagement of girls in sports, and strengthen community connection through visible female leadership.
INTERNSHIPS The Thunder welcomed eight summer interns into its three offices in early June and in doing so, reached the exciting milestone of 200 interns in its history. The Thunder also works with Cristo Rey OKC, a private, Catholic high school that weaves together college preparatory classes and a structured work study program. The Thunder has participated in the program that places students with corporate employers five days a month since the school’s opening in 2018.
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
lasting impact through mentorship, sports participation, and leadership development.
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BASIC NEEDS 46
BASIC NEEDS
OUR DAY IN NUMBERS
ESSENCE OF TEAMWORK The entire Thunder organization – players, coaches, executives and staff – comes together each spring to help make a difference in our community during our annual Thunder Cares Service Project. In March, more than 200 people dressed in blue Thunder Cares shirts arrived at Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, where together we packed food at three different stations to help serve communities across Oklahoma.
TOTAL IMPACT
32,184 POUNDS OF FOOD PACKED
26,819 MEALS PROVIDED
BREAKING IT DOWN WEEKEND BACKPACKS
MEAL PREP
20,700 pounds packed
4,585
pounds packed
17,250
meals provided
3,820
meals provided
6,210
kids being sent home with a backpack of food for the weekend
HOPE'S KITCHEN
Cold Room: 874 meals Bulk Couscous: 4,875 meals
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
HOLIDAY ASSIST BASIC NEEDS
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TRADITION LIKE NO OTHER Thunder Holiday Assist is one of our most cherished traditions, with roots dating back to our inaugural season. Starting annually in November and continuing through December, Holiday Assist has grown from eight events in 2008 to more than 40 this past year. Players, coaches, staff, and entertainers work together to help brighten spirits and the community with events that include serving holiday meals, providing groceries and essential goods, distributing resources to nonprofits, memorable shopping sprees, and more. New this year, the Thunder treated kids from Positive Tomorrow’s – Oklahoma’s only school dedicated to serving children and families experiencing homelessness to a special day aboard the Polar Express Train Ride, complete with a reading of the book, hot chocolate and photos with Santa. This past season, the Thunder and the Thunder Community Foundation teamed up with Homeland and Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages in November to provide resources and hundreds of meal kits to help support local families experiencing food insecurity. The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, Tinker Food Pantry, Diversion Hub, and the United Way of Central Oklahoma all helped distribute the meal kits.
Presented by Sprite
12 DAYS OF GIVING For the third consecutive year, the Thunder continued its surprise and delight series, 12 Days of Giving. Presented by Sprite, the holiday activation brings $1,000 worth of donated goods and supplies to 12 local nonprofits. 2025 STOPS Day 1: Christmas Connection Day 2: Police Athletic League (PAL) Day 3: NSO/Martha’s House Day 4: Teach for America Day 5: Lilyfield Day 6: Red Andrews
Day 8: Teen Recovery Solutions/Mission Academy Day 9: Dale Rogers Training Center Day 10: Possibilities Day 11: Whiz Kids Day 12: College Food Pantry @ UCO
Day 7: TEEM
* Six new agencies included in the 2025 stops
BASIC NEEDS
“THE HOLIDAYS ARE ABOUT FAMILY, BEING THERE FOR ONE ANOTHER." COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
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Those were the words spoken by Jalen Williams following his experience with another longstanding tradition, a Homeland shopping spree. Each season for the past 17 years, Thunder players have provided a clutch assist as the Thunder and Homeland work together to battle hunger one family at a time. Three families are nominated each year for the opportunity to roam the aisles with a player, who will help fill their shopping carts with items to stock their pantry and refrigerator in ways never imagined. The experience doesn’t end there. The family returns home with a Homeland gift card for a future visit.
CURB(SIDE) APPEAL Driven to create opportunity for others, OKC couple creates path to make it happen Whitley O’Connor headed to Vanderbilt University for his freshman year with big dreams and one clear mission: He wanted to mesh business with social missions, though, he said, “I wasn’t really sure how to do that.” He certainly figured it out. O’Connor grew up in Seminole where he and his family endured various degrees of insecurity. The experience helped sharpen his focus for his future, and in turn, thousands of others, knowing social enterprise would play a vital role in his professional journey. While away at college, O’Connor picked up a copy of The Contributor, a street paper that would be the inspiration for his future nonprofit, Curbside Enterprises. “There was an article in it about social enterprise, which is this concept of using business practices to achieve social good,” O’Connor said. “I’d been familiar with TOMS (shoes) and some other big companies at that point, but I didn’t yet know what that was called.” Later, he took a class called Social Enterprise, taught by a professor who was a central figure in the social enterprise movement in the United States. Soon, and with instructions from the professor he would call a mentor, O’Connor was deep into developing a business plan for what would become the Curbside Chronicle magazine. A meeting with the United Way of Central Oklahoma led to another with the Homeless Alliance, which led to more discussions all while cultivating relationships within the nonprofit community. Finally, with the support of his now wife Ranya and a lot of juggling between the two seniors-tobe, Curbside launched in the summer of 2013.
Thirteen years later, Whitley and Ranya stand proud as Curbside Enterprises is its own 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing income, housing, and employment opportunities to people struggling with homelessness and poverty in Oklahoma City. Through its housing case management and supportive employment programs – Curbside Chronicle, Curbside Flowers, Curbside Apparel, and Sasquatch Ice – the nonprofit helps people achieve stability and empowers the community to be part of the solution. Curbside provides supportive employment to people with barriers to the traditional workforce including developmental and physical disabilities, incarceration, mental illness, and other significant challenges. On average, they have experienced homelessness for 6.5 years. These challenges make it difficult to obtain and maintain employment – which is where Curbside comes in. In addition to helping their clients earn money, they provide life skills coaching, connections to community resources, work with people to build budgets and identify housing. “I obviously care deeply about homelessness,” O’Connor said. “What I truly care about, though, is opportunity.” More than 200 people each year gain and maintain housing through Curbside’s programs, earning more than $1 million annually through their employment initiatives. For more, go to www.curbside.org
INCLUSION 52
INCLUSION
ROOTED IN HERITAGE New City Edition Uniform Highlights Native American Culture and Community Pride
The unveiling of the 2025-26 Nike NBA City Edition Uniform, a tribute to the Native and Indigenous cultures that continue to shape Oklahoma’s identity and community spirit showcased that commitment. The full uniform was displayed in mid-August at the First Americans Museum (FAM) with a bonus: fans could enter to win City Edition gear. In November, the Thunder held its Tribal Luncheon at First Americans Museum to celebrate Native American Heritage Month, an event attended by representatives of nearly all of Oklahoma’s 39
federally recognized tribes. One member from each of the tribes was presented with a custom City Edition jersey. The Thunder wore the uniform for the first time during a Nov. 19 home game that, intentionally, was also the team’s annual Native American Heritage Night. The new uniform drew creative inspiration from the 2018-19 City Edition design. This season’s version deepens the connection to Oklahoma’s rich Native heritage, weaving together historical influences with modern-day pride, reflecting Oklahoma City as a city that’s on the move, united by culture, and energized by the growing legacy of Thunder Basketball.
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
The Thunder is committed to honoring the cultural heritage, collective experiences, contributions, and perspectives that make Oklahoma unique.
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CULTURAL SPOTLIGHT Each season, the Thunder hosts themed game nights in recognition of the rich cultural contributions and heritage within the state of Oklahoma, including (pictured) Native American Heritage Night, HBCU Night, Lunar New Year Celebration, and Hispanic Heritage Night.
INCLUSION
Oklahoma students in grades 9-12 are invited each year to participate in our annual Black Heritage Creative Contest, sponsored by Sprite. Students submit original art that describes or depicts an inspirational experience, moment or individual in Black history and how they have been personally inspired. Four winners, one per grade, receive a prize pack that includes four tickets to a February game, a Thunder jersey, warmup jacket, sneakers, and more.
COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
WHO INSPIRES YOU?
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THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE COMMUNITY PARTNERS The Thunder is proud to work alongside corporate partners who support the community through the following platforms:
12 Days of Giving, presented by Sprite
Continental Resources Thunder Book Vending Machines
AI Sports Scholars, supported by Google
Rolling Thunder Book Bus, presented by American Fidelity
Thunder Youth Basketball, presented by Simple Modern
Black Heritage Creative Contest, presented by Sprite
Cox Field Days
Oklahoma Ford Dealers of the Game
Teacher of the Game, presented by American Fidelity
Women in Business, presented by MidFirst Bank
Homeland Shopping Sprees
Thunder Math Hoops, presented by Devon Energy
YMCA Youth Media Day, presented by Love’s Travel Stops
Devon SportsLab Blocks for Bucks, presented by Phillips Murrah
Devon Thunder Explorers Homeland Turkey Giveaway
Community Courts Refurbishment Project, energized by OG&E Community Ticket Program, presented by OG&E
Google Coding Camps OG&E Safety Partner Wonder Rooms, supported by Google
OU Health Community Connection
Thunder Reading Challenge, presented by American Fidelity Thunder Reading Timeouts, presented by American Fidelity