Playoff Wins are Wins for OKC

As featured in the Journal Record

Round 1 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs is finally here. Paycom Center was washed Thunder blue as OKC secured a Game 1 win against the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday, and it’ll light up again tonight for Game 2. The Thunder’s playoff run is more than just a wave of civic pride. From the Thunder flags flying atop construction cranes to bold orange and blue banners adorning the sides of buildings, the city is fully charged for a boom of economic impact.

Playoff cities experience a significant economic boost. When Denver hosted the 2023 NBA Finals, the direct economic impact totaled nearly $25 million, not including ticket sales and branded merchandise. The longer a team stays in the playoffs, the more dollars flow into the local economy. Visit Milwaukee reported that the Bucks’ 2021 championship run brought $57.6 million in direct and indirect spending to the city. Each round delivered a bigger economic impact than the last, with millions added as the team progressed.

Oklahoma City is poised for similar gains. As fans pour into downtown to experience the excitement firsthand, hotels, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues—especially those near the arena—can expect a significant uptick in business. Even retailers and service providers not directly tied to the games are likely to benefit as out-of-town visitors explore the city and spend locally.

Read the rest of the column in the Journal Record.

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