And in Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals, it was the Oklahoma City Thunder versus the Indiana Pacers. They played spirited throughout but came up one point short in the end, 111-110. The defeat, though, was not enough to relieve the optimism of Thunder fans, who have inspired multiple teams of dancers and mascots. Before each game, fans gather and chant and pray together, representing their community and hope with fierce pride and unity.
Even so, the phrase “Thunder Up” is a deeply rooted battle cry among the Oklahoma City faithful. It’s a symbol of their collective passion and commitment to the team. It serves to tether inextricably to one another as a rallying cry in both victories and defeats. The Thunder’s first trip to the Finals has been a slow and methodical journey, filled with great successes and crushing defeats. Since their move from New Orleans in 2005, the Thunder has become such an important part of Oklahoma City’s identity.
The Thunder’s successful ascendancy to NBA glory has come without its crises. In that 2016 season, they won their way to the conference finals and blew a soul crushing 3-1 lead to the Golden State Warriors. In 2019, the team shocked the world by trading for star player Paul George. This daring transaction for an assortment of first-round selections is generally regarded as the foundation of their present-day prosperity. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the NBA’s Most Valuable Player this year, emerged as the centerpiece of that trade, showcasing Oklahoma City’s commitment to building a competitive team.
And even after that heartbreaking one-run loss in Game 1, fans such as Batson are feeling hopeful. She recalls a time of personal upheaval during the 1995 Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building bombing, which devastated Oklahoma City. For her and many others, the Thunder’s day-to-day presence has made a big difference in how the healing community has had to process this trauma.
“You know, some of my customers come in here upset, mad about it, and I’m like, ‘Hey, we got this. We’re gonna get it,’” – Batson
The loud and passionate nature of Thunder fans shined in the arena on game day. Flight attendants welcomed guests with a smile that was as welcoming as the belonging that many Okies shared in Oklahoma City.
“I’d like to be the first to welcome you to MY hometown, Oklahoma City.” – Flight Attendant
This sense of ownership and community pride is further expressed by local chef and restaurateur Andrew Black. He wants you to understand how vital the Thunder are to Oklahoma’s identity.
“Oklahoma is a place where people matter,” – Andrew Black
When game day rolled around, local businesses experienced the effect of a Thunder presence as well. Batson said customers are quick to complain after a loss, but her positive outlook tends to win them over.
“They’re like ‘No, they’re messing up. They’re messing up.’ I’m like, ‘No, we got this.’” – Batson
Chris Perry, a local commentator, reflected on how small markets like Oklahoma City can thrive in an NBA landscape often dominated by larger cities.
“People will say the NBA is not happy because the Lakers or Golden State or New York, Miami or Boston aren’t in it,” – Chris Perry
He continued, saying that the NHL’s hard salary cap system is what keeps teams such as the Thunder competitive.
“But this is what the NBA has gone for with such a strict salary cap. It’s really an egalitarian league now where anyone can compete,” – Chris Perry
Fans of the new installment are eager for their devotion, patience and encouragement to pay dividends as the rebooted title moves along. Game 1 crackled with an electric intensity. Each cheer was based on a powerful belief in the team that transcends victory.
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