Paycom Center – Home of the Oklahoma City Thunder | Arena Guide
Paycom Center - Travel Guide & Stadium Information
- Basketball stadium in Oklahoma City, United States with 18,203 capacity - complete travel and matchday guide
- Professional playing surface with modern facilities
- Transport: Nearest train station, tube line, and bus routes with walking times
- Parking: Official stadium parking £10 to £20, street parking options nearby
- Away fans: Dedicated section, entrance gates, and capacity allocation information
Key Facts
Paycom Center Essential Details
Paycom Center Basic Details
Stadium Capacity
18,203 spectators
Year Opened
2002
Address & Location
100 West Reno Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73102
Oklahoma City, United States
Technical Specifications
Stadium Type
Single-Sport Venue
Primary Sport
Basketball
Venue Classification
Arena
Location & Maps
About Paycom Center
About Paycom Center
Paycom Center is the proud home of the Oklahoma City Thunder in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City — one of the NBA's most compelling single-team markets and home to the 2025 NBA Champions. Originally built as the centerpiece of Oklahoma City's MAPS (Metropolitan Area Projects) Capital Improvement Program and opening in June 2002 as the Ford Center, the arena was renamed Chesapeake Energy Arena in 2010 and took its current name in 2021 following a 15-year naming rights agreement with Oklahoma-based Paycom Software. Owned by the City of Oklahoma City and managed by Legends Global, Paycom Center seats 18,203 and has become the undisputed hub of professional sports in a state without other major professional team competition. The Thunder arrived in 2008 when the Seattle SuperSonics relocated to Oklahoma City — a move that was met with passionate fan support from day one. What followed was remarkable: Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden built one of the league's most feared teams, reaching the 2012 NBA Finals before losing to the Miami Heat. A subsequent rebuilding era culminated in the 2025 NBA Championship under the leadership of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and an elite young roster — delivering Oklahoma City's first title and igniting the city in celebration. Paycom Center has also hosted historically significant events: the arena became the site where COVID-19 stopped the NBA season in March 2020, when Rudy Gobert tested positive ahead of a Thunder game, prompting the suspension of the entire season. Paycom Center's naming rights deal was shortened in July 2025 through 2028, when the Thunder are expected to relocate to a newly constructed arena in the Oklahoma City area.
Visiting Paycom Center
🏛️Stadium History
Paycom Center was built as the Ford Center, opening in June 2002 as the centrepiece of Oklahoma City's MAPS capital improvement programme — a citizen-voted initiative that transformed downtown OKC. The arena was initially home to minor league and amateur sports, hosting the NBA temporarily in 2005–2007 when the New Orleans Hornets relocated to Oklahoma City following Hurricane Katrina. That temporary arrangement introduced OKC to NBA basketball and set the stage for the Thunder's permanent arrival in 2008 when the Seattle SuperSonics relocated. The Thunder era brought unprecedented basketball passion to Oklahoma City: Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden built a dynasty-level team that reached the 2012 NBA Finals. After multiple rebuilds, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led a new generation to the 2025 NBA Championship — the first in franchise history. On March 11, 2020, Paycom Center entered global sports history as the site where the NBA's COVID-19 season suspension was triggered. The arena was renamed Chesapeake Energy Arena in 2010 and Paycom Center in 2021. Naming rights were shortened in 2025 to expire in 2028, when the Thunder are expected to move to a new facility.
⚡Matchday Atmosphere
Paycom Center generates one of the NBA's most intense home atmospheres — Oklahoma City has no other major professional sports competition for the Thunder's attention, creating a city-wide devotion unmatched in the league. The Thunder's unique standing-until-first-score tradition means the entire arena stands silently at tip-off, creating a moment of collective tension that explodes the instant OKC scores. Pre-game, the Bricktown Canal walk provides a genuinely beautiful and lively approach to the arena, with restaurants like Mickey Mantle's Steakhouse and bars like Bricktown Brewery hosting fans. Inside, Oklahoma craft beers from Skydance, Marshall, Twisted Spike, and Vanessa House reflect OKC's growing food culture. For peak atmosphere: the 2025 championship era has delivered sold-out games with a city celebrating its first title — virtually every Thunder game is a major Oklahoma City occasion.
🎯Stadium Tours
Paycom Center offers behind-the-scenes tours covering the Thunder locker room, player tunnel, court-level access, luxury suites, and broadcast areas. Contact fans@okcthunder.com or 405-208-4800 for availability. Box office open event days from noon (Mon–Sat) or 4 hours before events on Sundays. The Thunder Shop (west side of arena) is open weekdays 10 AM–6 PM. With the arena expected to be replaced by 2028, these tours offer fans a limited opportunity to experience the championship venue.
Getting to Paycom Center
Getting to the Stadium
OKC Downtown Streetcar & Embark Transit
Oklahoma City's Downtown Streetcar provides convenient access to Paycom Center, with the Bricktown Loop passing near the arena along Sheridan Avenue — a short walk from arena entrances. The streetcar is an enjoyable and efficient way to reach the arena from Bricktown, Midtown, and other popular downtown districts. Embark bus routes 2, 5, and 13 also serve the downtown Oklahoma City area near Paycom Center. The Embark Transit system covers the wider Oklahoma City metro. For schedules and routes, check embarkok.com.
Driving & Parking at Paycom Center
Paycom Center is located at 100 West Reno Avenue in downtown Oklahoma City, easily accessible from I-40 (downtown exits to Robinson Avenue) and I-235. The primary arena parking is an underground garage at the neighbouring Prairie Surf Studios, managed by Republic Parking Systems, with entrances on the east side on E.K. Gaylord and the west side on N. Robinson. Both garage entrances provide elevator access to arena-level connections. Accessible parking is also located in lots on the south side of Paycom Center with entrances on SW 3rd Street east of Robinson. Over 18,000 parking spaces are available throughout downtown Oklahoma City and the adjacent Bricktown district. Standard parking runs $10–$20. Rideshare pick-up and drop-off is at Second and Harvey on the west side of the arena.
Amtrak – Oklahoma City Amtrak Station
Oklahoma City is served by Amtrak at the Santa Fe Depot station at 100 South EK Gaylord Blvd, adjacent to Paycom Center — one of the most conveniently located Amtrak stations relative to an NBA arena. The Heartland Flyer (daily service between OKC and Fort Worth, Texas) stops here. From Fort Worth, the journey takes approximately 3.5 hours. While Amtrak is limited in frequency, fans travelling from Fort Worth or other Texas cities for Thunder games can take the train and walk directly to Paycom Center.
Walking in Bricktown & Downtown OKC
Paycom Center is located in central downtown Oklahoma City adjacent to the famous Bricktown entertainment district — a historic warehouse area converted into a vibrant collection of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues connected by the Bricktown Canal. The canal walk from Bricktown to Paycom Center takes approximately 10 minutes and is one of the most pleasant pre-game walking routes in the NBA. The Myriad Botanical Gardens are a 10-minute walk west. Automobile Alley, downtown's historic car dealership district now converted into a hip dining and retail corridor, is a 15-minute walk north.
Stadium Tours
Paycom Center Behind-the-Scenes Tour
Tour Description
Paycom Center offers behind-the-scenes arena tours that take fans inside the 2025 NBA Championship venue and the home court of one of the NBA's most exciting young teams. Tours explore the Oklahoma City Thunder locker room, player tunnel and court-level access, luxury suite viewing, broadcast and press areas, and the Thunder merchandise facilities. The tour celebrates the remarkable story of the Thunder franchise — from their arrival in OKC in 2008 through the Kevin Durant/Russell Westbrook dynasty era to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's championship leadership in 2025. With the Thunder expected to relocate to a new arena by 2028, these tours offer fans a final opportunity to experience the building that shaped one of the NBA's great stories. Tour enquiries: fans@okcthunder.com or 405-208-4800.
Pricing & Duration
Adult tickets cost £20, children's tickets are £12, and concession tickets are available for £16. The complete stadium tour experience lasts 60 minutes, providing comprehensive access to the stadium's most exclusive areas.
Tour Highlights
The Paycom Center Behind-the-Scenes Tour includes thunder locker room, player tunnel and court-level access, luxury suite viewing, broadcast/press areas, thunder merchandise thunder shop (west side of arena, open weekdays 10 am–6 pm), 2025 championship historical exhibits, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world's most famous stadiums. Tour availability varies by arena event schedule. Paycom Center is only open on event days for regular access. Contact the Oklahoma City Thunder at fans@okcthunder.com or 405-208-4800 for tour availability and scheduling. Box office open event days from noon (Monday–Saturday) or four hours before the event on Sundays. Contact the Thunder at fans@okcthunder.com or 405-208-4800. Box office at Paycom Center (just off West Reno between the two main north-side entrances) open event days from noon (Mon-Sat) or 4 hours before events on Sundays. Currently temporarily closed on non-event days.
Hotels Near Paycom Center
Where to Stay
Omni Oklahoma City Hotel
Accommodation Type & Location
Luxury accommodation - Walking distance – 2 minutes
Pricing
Rates from £200 to £500 per night
Description
The Omni Oklahoma City Hotel is the most prestigious and conveniently located luxury hotel for Paycom Center — attached to the Oklahoma City Convention Center and within 2 minutes' walk of the arena. A full-service Omni property featuring multiple restaurants, a rooftop pool with city views, and the brand's signature select guest experience. The undisputed choice for visiting NBA teams and premium fans, the Omni delivers luxury in a location unmatched for arena proximity.
Colcord Hotel Oklahoma City, Curio Collection by Hilton
Accommodation Type & Location
Mid-range accommodation - Walking distance – 6 minutes
Pricing
Rates from £160 to £350 per night
Description
Colcord Hotel Oklahoma City is a beautifully restored historic downtown hotel — the city's oldest — housed in a 1910 building with preserved architectural character and contemporary amenities. Part of the Hilton Curio Collection, this distinguished property offers mid-range pricing with genuine historic charm, making it a highly regarded choice for Timberwolves fans who want character alongside convenience.
Courtyard by Marriott Oklahoma City Downtown
Accommodation Type & Location
Budget accommodation - Walking distance – 1 minute
Pricing
Rates from £130 to £260 per night
Description
The Courtyard by Marriott Oklahoma City Downtown is the closest major hotel to Paycom Center — located at 2 West Reno Avenue, effectively adjacent to the arena. Offering Marriott's reliable standard at accessible price points with the most direct walking connection of any hotel to the arena entrance, this is the ideal budget-conscious choice for fans who prioritise pure arena proximity.
Aloft Oklahoma City Downtown Bricktown
Accommodation Type & Location
Boutique accommodation - Walking distance – 7 minutes
Pricing
Rates from £120 to £250 per night
Description
Aloft Oklahoma City Downtown Bricktown is a tech-forward Marriott-brand boutique-style hotel in the Bricktown district, offering modern, design-conscious rooms at accessible prices. The Bricktown location provides easy access to the district's restaurants and bars for pre-game dining before walking or taking the streetcar to Paycom Center. The W XYZ Bar and social spaces create an energetic environment that suits the Thunder's vibrant fanbase.
Dining at Paycom Center
Restaurants
Pubs & Bars
Paycom Center Accessibility
Accessibility
Accessible Entrances & Ramps
Paycom Center meets or exceeds all ADA structural and service requirements. Multiple accessible entrances are available around the building. The arena's design provides step-free access from surrounding street level to all main entrances. Accessible entrances on all sides of the arena. Rideshare accessible drop-off at Reno and Robinson near the northwest entrance. Staff available at all major entrances to assist.
Wheelchair Accessible Seating
Wheelchair accessible seats are available in all price levels at Paycom Center. Up to three companion tickets may be purchased with each wheelchair accessible ticket. Indicate at time of purchase if accessible seating is required. Select accessible seating via Ticketmaster or call the box office. Companion tickets (up to 3) can be purchased with each accessible ticket. Accessible passenger drop-off at Reno and Robinson (northwest entrance).
ADA-Compliant Restrooms
ADA-compliant restrooms and accessible drinking fountains and concession counters are available throughout all levels of Paycom Center. Restroom locations shown on arena maps at paycomcenter.com. Concession counters are wheelchair accessible throughout.
South-Side Lots & Prairie Surf Underground Garage
Accessible parking is available in lots on the south side of Paycom Center (entrances on SW 3rd Street east of Robinson). Accessible spaces are also available in the underground Prairie Surf Studios garage. All accessible spaces are near elevator entrances. Accessible parking on the south side: SW 3rd Street east of Robinson. Underground Prairie Surf garage also has accessible spaces near elevator entrances. Valid disability placard or plate required. Call 405-235-PARK for parking information.
Assistive Listening Devices
Listening devices may be rented free of charge at the Guest Relations Desks located at each main arena entrance. A credit card or check deposit and valid ID are required to ensure return of the equipment. Collect assistive listening devices from Guest Relations Desks at each main entrance. Credit card or check deposit and valid ID required. Devices provided free of charge.
Guide Dogs & Service Animals
Trained guide dogs and service animals are permitted to assist guests inside Paycom Center. If special accommodations are required for a service animal, notify the arena at ticket purchase time. All other animals are prohibited. Notify Paycom Center at time of ticket purchase for service animal accommodations. Designated relief areas available. All service animals must be trained assistance animals.
Elevators & Emergency Evacuation
Elevators are located throughout Paycom Center for wheelchair access to all levels. The elevators near Section 101 (just inside the northwest entrance) provide access to the arena floor. Club level elevator nearest Section 205. Paycom Center staff are trained in emergency preparedness and evacuation procedures for guests with disabilities. Key staff members are assigned to assist guests with disabilities to safety in emergencies. Elevator near Section 101 provides arena floor access. Contact Guest Relations at 405-602-8700 for advance mobility planning.
Paycom Center Ticket Information
Ticket Prices
Upper Level Tickets
Seating Area & Price Range
Upper Bowl (300s) tickets range from $30 USD to $120 USD for the season and partial-season plans via thunder ticket office: 405-208-4800 or fans@okcthunder.com..
Description
Entry-level tickets at the home of the 2025 NBA Champions and one of the NBA's most passionate single-team markets. Average Thunder game ticket: $50–$150. Every seat at Paycom Center participates in the Thunder's distinctive stand-until-first-score tradition.
What's Included
These upper-tier seating at paycom center. the arena's 18,203 capacity creates an intimate, concentrated atmosphere that makes the upper bowl feel relatively close to the action. thunder home-court fans stand until okc scores — a unique local tradition that creates immediate engagement from all seating levels. tickets include standard event admission, access to all public concourse areas including oklahoma craft beer stands (skydance, marshall, twisted spike, vanessa house). atm at section 119/120., making them an excellent choice for visitors seeking luxury hospitality experience.
Lower Level Tickets
Seating Area & Price Range
Lower Bowl (100s and 200s) tickets range from $75 USD to $450 USD for the full and partial-season packages available..
Description
Lower level seats at the 2025 NBA Championship venue in one of American sports' most single-minded basketball markets — OKC lives and breathes Thunder basketball in a way few cities match.
What's Included
These main lower bowl seating delivering the full thunder atmosphere experience. the lower bowl's intimate connection to the court and the arena's passionate championship-era crowd create one of the nba's most electrically charged home environments. tickets include standard event admission, lower-level concourse access, making them an excellent choice for visitors seeking luxury hospitality experience.
Club Level Tickets
Seating Area & Price Range
Old No. 7 Club & Michelob ULTRA Club tickets range from $180 USD to $800 USD for the primarily season packages. single-event premium: complete form at paycomcenter.com..
Description
Premium seating at the championship arena in the NBA's most devoted single-team market. Access to in-arena dining at the Michelob ULTRA Club — reserve in advance for game nights.
What's Included
These premium seating with access to paycom center's two premium club restaurants — the michelob ultra club (open 1 hour before thunder game doors) and jack daniel's old no. 7 club (open at general door time for non-thunder events). reservations available for michelob ultra club at 405-601-4459. tickets include event admission, club restaurant access (michelob ultra club or old no. 7), elevated food and beverage, priority entry, making them an excellent choice for visitors seeking luxury hospitality experience.
Suites & Premium Tickets
Seating Area & Price Range
Luxury Suites tickets range from $800 USD to $10000 USD for the full-season leases and individual game options — contact premium seating..
Description
Suite hospitality at the 2025 NBA Championship venue in one of the most passionate NBA markets in America. Oklahoma City's energy industry and growing tech sector create strong corporate demand for premium sports entertainment.
What's Included
These paycom center luxury suites provide private corporate entertainment environments. contact thunder premium seating for availability. suite guests are welcome at in-arena restaurants for their event. tickets include private suite access, full catering options, parking passes, suite amenity package, making them an excellent choice for visitors seeking luxury hospitality experience.
Paycom Center FAQs
Filter by Category
What is the capacity of Paycom Center?Featured
Paycom Center has a seating capacity of 18,203 for Oklahoma City Thunder NBA games. The arena is owned by the City of Oklahoma City and managed by Legends Global. The Thunder are expected to relocate to a new arena by 2028, when the Paycom naming rights deal expires.
When did the Oklahoma City Thunder win the 2025 NBA Championship?Featured
The Oklahoma City Thunder won the 2025 NBA Championship — the first title in franchise history — under the leadership of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Finals MVP). The championship delivered Oklahoma City its first major professional sports title and generated one of the most celebrated moments in the city's history.
How do I get to Paycom Center without driving?Featured
The OKC Downtown Streetcar (Bricktown Loop) stops near the arena on Sheridan Avenue — a short walk from entrances. The Heartland Flyer Amtrak train stops at the adjacent Santa Fe Depot (direct walk to arena). Embark bus routes 2, 5, and 13 also serve the downtown area. Oklahoma City is primarily car-centric — most fans drive.
Is there parking at Paycom Center?Featured
Yes. The primary parking is the Prairie Surf Studios underground garage (east entrance on E.K. Gaylord, west entrance on N. Robinson). Accessible parking on the south side (SW 3rd Street east of Robinson). Over 18,000 parking spaces throughout downtown OKC. Call 405-235-PARK or visit parkingokc.com. Rideshare at Second and Harvey (west side).
What is the Thunder's unique pre-game tradition?
When the Oklahoma City Thunder score their first point of a game, all fans stand and remain standing until that moment. This unique standing-until-first-score tradition is one of the NBA's most distinctive fan customs — a visitor to Paycom Center immediately notices the entire arena standing silently at tip-off until the Thunder's first basket.
What is the bag policy at Paycom Center?
Bags must be 6" x 9" x 2" or smaller (this includes clear bags of this size). Larger items including binders, adult shoes not being worn, and full-size basketballs are prohibited. Jerseys and individual basketball cards are permitted. All bags are searched upon entry.
Is Paycom Center cashless?
Yes, Paycom Center is a cashless venue. Accepted payments: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. An ATM is available at Section 119/120 for cash withdrawals.
Is Paycom Center accessible for guests with disabilities?
Yes. The arena meets or exceeds all ADA requirements. Accessible seating at all levels (up to 3 companion tickets per accessible ticket). Accessible parking on south side (SW 3rd Street). Prairie Surf garage has accessible spaces. Listening devices free at Guest Relations Desks. Elevators throughout. Guest Relations: 405-602-8700.
What is the history of Paycom Center's naming?
The arena opened as the Ford Center in 2002. It became Chesapeake Energy Arena in 2010. In 2021 it was renamed Paycom Center after Oklahoma-based payroll software company Paycom. In July 2025, the naming rights deal was shortened through 2028, when the Thunder are expected to move to a new arena.
What was the significant COVID-19 moment at Paycom Center?
On March 11, 2020, Paycom Center (then Chesapeake Energy Arena) became the site where the NBA season was suspended due to COVID-19. A Utah Jazz-Oklahoma City Thunder game was being prepared when Jazz center Rudy Gobert tested positive, prompting the game's immediate cancellation and the NBA's season suspension — the first major US sports league to respond to the pandemic.
How do I buy Oklahoma City Thunder tickets?
Via Ticketmaster and nba.com/thunder. Box office (just off West Reno, north side of arena) open event days from noon (Mon-Sat) or 4 hours before events on Sundays — currently closed on non-event days. Thunder ticket office: 405-208-4800 or fans@okcthunder.com. In-game announcements: 48 hours notice required.
What Oklahoma craft beers are available at Paycom Center?
Paycom Center showcases Oklahoma City's vibrant craft beer scene with beers from Skydance Brewing, Marshall Brewing, Twisted Spike Brewing, and Vanessa House Beer Co. — all local Oklahoma breweries. These are available at carts and stands throughout the arena on all seating levels alongside standard domestic and imported options.
Latest News
Thunder Naming Rights Shortened to 2028 as New Arena Plans Advance
Published
1 July 2025
Article Summary
The Oklahoma City Thunder and Paycom Software announced in July 2025 that their naming rights agreement for Paycom Center has been shortened through 2028 — the year the Thunder are expected to relocate to a newly constructed arena in the Oklahoma City area. The announcement confirmed what had been anticipated: the city's championship-winning franchise will transition to a state-of-the-art new facility in the coming years, closing the chapter on the arena that hosted the Thunder from their 2008 arrival through their 2025 title.
Oklahoma City Thunder Win 2025 NBA Championship at Paycom Center
FeaturedPublished
1 June 2025
Article Summary
The Oklahoma City Thunder claimed the 2025 NBA Championship — the first title in franchise history — at Paycom Center, as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's transcendent season culminated in a Finals MVP performance that delivered Oklahoma City its first major professional sports title. The championship fulfilled the promise of a rebuild that had stripped the roster to its bones before patiently developing one of the NBA's most talented young rosters. The celebration at Paycom Center and throughout Oklahoma City was one of the most joyous moments in the city's sports history.
Paycom Center Site of COVID-19 NBA Season Suspension in March 2020
Published
11 March 2020
Article Summary
Paycom Center entered sports history on March 11, 2020, as the site where the NBA season was suspended due to COVID-19. A Utah Jazz-Oklahoma City Thunder game was being prepared when word arrived that Jazz centre Rudy Gobert had tested positive for COVID-19. The game was immediately cancelled and the NBA announced the suspension of its season — the first major North American professional sports league to make such a decision, a moment that marked the beginning of the pandemic's dramatic impact on global sports.
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