- calendar_today May 18, 2026
Oklahoma’s basketball community is rallying as the OKC Thunder prepare to tip off Game 1 of the hotly anticipated Western Conference finals this Monday. The matchup against the San Antonio Spurs is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at the Paycom Center, presenting fans across the region with an array of ways to participate and support their team as playoff excitement peaks.
Doors Open Early with Special Offers at Paycom Center
Fans attending the thunder game at the Paycom Center will have access to the venue starting at 5:30 p.m., giving them ample time to enjoy pregame festivities. For the first hour after doors open, food and beverages throughout the stadium will be offered at half price, providing an added incentive for early arrival. This special arrangement hopes to welcome supporters and energize the crowd ahead of this crucial monday game against the conference rival, San Antonio Spurs.
Thunder Up in the Park: A Family-Friendly Celebration
Adding to the playoff buzz, the “Thunder Up in the Park” event will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Scissortail Park plaza. Open to all ages, the event offers a family-friendly atmosphere with games and entertainment, allowing the Oklahoma City community to come together before the game. This pregame gathering is designed to unite fans and foster a festive spirit, no matter their ticket status for the main event inside the arena.
Charity at the Forefront: Playoff Auction Benefits Community
Monday’s playoff auction, another highlight of the night, will run until the end of the third quarter. This initiative, managed by the Thunder Community Foundation, invites fans to bid on memorabilia and exclusive experiences. All proceeds go directly to community programs across Oklahoma, reinforcing the Thunder’s commitment to local outreach alongside their playoff push. Participation in the auction not only brings fans closer to the action but also strengthens ties with the communities that fuel the franchise’s spirit.
Plenty of Ways to Watch: Broadcasts and Watch Parties
Fans unable to secure seats at the Paycom Center still have numerous options to catch the game and experience the energy. Live coverage will be broadcast on KFOR, while streaming is available via Peacock. Radio listeners can tune in to WWLS 98.1 The Sports Animal for live play-by-play. Additionally, Thunder Hall will host an official thunder watch party, and several Thunder Watch Zones and Bar Network locations across Oklahoma City will welcome fans seeking a group viewing experience. These viewing options are intended to bring the excitement of the Western Conference finals to as many corners of the region as possible.
Thunder Support Strong Across Oklahoma
The excitement for this matchup has gripped the state, with businesses and schools displaying OKC Thunder colors and rallying cries across Oklahoma. As anticipation mounts for the thunder game, local authorities and public transportation agencies are also bracing for increased activity around downtown, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all visitors.
Looking Ahead in the Playoffs
The showdown with the San Antonio Spurs stands as a key moment for the Thunder’s playoff ambitions and for their fan base, which has been waiting for another shot at a Western Conference title. With hundreds of fans participating in the community-driven playoff auction and thousands expected at in-person events and viewing parties, Oklahoma’s support behind the OKC Thunder remains unwavering.
From the half-price concessions at Paycom Center to satellite thunder watch party gatherings and broad broadcast options like the KFOR broadcast, the entire state is set to experience playoff drama together. As the series unfolds, all eyes in Oklahoma will remain on the OKC Thunder, hoping for a deep postseason run and more reasons to unite in Thunder pride.





