Architectural designs released for OKC’s new arena

Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt shared preliminary architectural renderings of the new arena during his seventh annual State of the City address, which drew a sold-out crowd. The venue will be a state-of-the-art NBA arena and entertainment center. 

“The primary purpose of our new arena was to secure a long-term future with major league professional sports, and to keep us competitive for concerts, but there are secondary benefits as well,” Holt said. “One of those other benefits is the opportunity to raise the aesthetic bar in our downtown and to make an architectural statement. This arena has the potential to become a signature building for our city, known around the world. I believe this design absolutely seizes that opportunity, and I am grateful to David Manica and his colleagues, as well as the Thunder and everyone who has been a part of this process for the last few months. This arena design truly is one of one.” 

The design team includes MANICA Architecture as design architect and TVS as architect of record. City Council must approve the final plans. In March, the council hired Flintco Construction and Mortenson Construction as the builders. 

The arena is set to open by late summer 2028. The conceptual plan features a 360-degree glass wall that offers broad views from inside and connects the building to the city. Architecturally, the conceptual design for the new venue includes a 360-degree glass curtain wall, offering panoramic views from all interior concourses, emphasizing transparency and connection.  

The west entrance will face Myriad Botanical Gardens and Oklahoma sunsets. It will include Thunder Alley, a fan area at street level within the arena footprint. 

A raised main entrance on a grand podium will lead visitors to the concourse. The interior is designed with basketball in mind, with sight lines and seating that create an energetic atmosphere. 

“I’m thrilled and honored to be leading the design of the new arena in downtown Oklahoma City,” said David Manica, owner of MANICA Architecture. “The collaboration between my team, the city and the Thunder has certainly resulted in a design that will set a new standard for multi-use sport venues around the world. The design is truly a one-of-a-kind, and there is nothing else like it in the world. It will be an icon for the future of this growing city, and a place for the community to come together to share incredible new memories for generations to come.” 

Thunder Chairman Clay Bennett said the design marks a major step toward building a downtown landmark. 

“The journey to build a unique and transformative downtown landmark has taken a significant step forward with the unveiling of this preliminary conceptual design,” Bennett said. “We are incredibly grateful to Mayor Holt for his leadership and to David Manica and his team who have done a remarkable job capturing our vision for an arena that elevates the spirit of competition, celebrates the values of our community and strengthens Oklahoma City’s local and global identity.” 

The arena will be funded by a 72-month, one-cent sales tax that will start when the MAPS 4 tax ends. The rate will not increase. Funding also includes $78 million from MAPS 4 and $50 million from the Thunder ownership group. Legends/ASM Global will manage the arena. 

ASM Global General Manager Chris Semrau said the arena will help keep OKC on the map for major events. 

“The new arena will continue to elevate our city’s profile as a premier destination for major tours, sporting events and family shows, while enhancing the community’s cultural and entertainment offerings,” Semrau. “It will offer unparalleled experiences for artists, guests, athletes and performers alike. Legends/ASM Global is excited to continue to bring top entertainment and live event experiences to the Oklahoma City New Arena.” 

Renderings and video of the preliminary arena conceptual designs, as well as additional information can be found at okcnewarena.com.

The Thunder will play at Paycom Center until the new arena opens. The target opening is late summer 2028, with a contractual deadline of June 2029. The Thunder’s new 25-year lease begins when they move in.