Blood and Thunder: A Deep Dive into the Oklahoma City Thunder's Legacy and Future

Episode Information:

• Title: Blood and Thunder
• Podcast: The Ringer NBA Show
• Host/Author: The Ringer
• Release Date: April 16, 2025

Introduction

In the "Blood and Thunder" episode of The Ringer NBA Show, host Brian Phillips, along with Ringer colleagues Tyler Parker and Jordan Ritter Khan, delves into the intricate history and current state of the Oklahoma City Thunder. Released on the cusp of the 2025 NBA Playoffs, the episode explores the team's tumultuous origins, cultural significance, and promising future, while addressing lingering tensions from their relocation from Seattle.

The Relocation Saga: From Seattle to Oklahoma City

The Thunder's move from Seattle in 2007 remains a pivotal moment in NBA history. Tyler Parker sets the stage by expressing his deep-seated frustration with the relocation:

"Seventeen years ago, the new Oklahoma based owners of the Seattle SuperSonics acted in bad faith when they promised to try to keep the team in Seattle. They never meant to keep the team in Seattle." (00:52)

Jordan Ritter Khan echoes this sentiment, highlighting the betrayal felt by Sonic fans:

"I would be furious. I would wake up every day and check to see if the Thunder lost... I would be 80 and cheering against the Thunder." (03:57)

The hosts discuss Clay Bennett's deceptive tactics and the broader implications of team relocations in American sports, contrasting the franchise-driven model with the community-centric approach seen in European soccer.

Cultural Clash: Seattle Cool vs. Oklahoma City Underdog

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the stark cultural differences between Seattle and Oklahoma City. Seattle, with its vibrant countercultural scene and iconic brands like Starbucks, epitomized "cool" during the Sonics era. In contrast, Oklahoma City was perceived as lacking in cultural cachet:

"Seattle was computers. Oklahoma City was fossil fuels. Seattle was Kurt Cobain. Oklahoma City was Garth Brooks." (09:40)

This cultural disparity fueled resentment among Seattle fans and posed challenges for the Thunder in establishing their identity in a new market.

Building a New Legacy: The Rise of the Oklahoma City Thunder

Despite the rocky start, the Thunder have forged a strong identity in Oklahoma City. Tyler Parker praises the team's defensive prowess and the emergence of star player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander:

"They've got the best defense in the league. They've got the league's top scorer, Shai Gilgeous Alexander, a leading MVP candidate." (04:20)

Jordan Ritter Khan reflects on the team's growth and the passionate fan base that has embraced them:

"It has built an incredible atmosphere in their home arena, even though their fan base is a fraction of the size of Los Angeles." (40:12)

The hosts credit General Manager Sam Presti for meticulously crafting a contender through savvy drafting and team-building, emphasizing the Thunder's commitment to long-term success over short-term gains.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: Redefining the Thunder's Identity

A significant highlight of the episode is the in-depth analysis of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's impact on the team. Tyler Parker lauds Shai's playing style and defensive commitment:

"Of all the players in the NBA right now, Shai is easily the one who gives me that feeling the most." (41:33)

Jordan discusses Shai's artistry on the court, comparing his skills to legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant:

"And you get like the time to me when he looks most like Jordan or like Kobe or like these great wings that can somehow like sit in recliners in the air and shoot these shots." (44:34)

Shai's ability to command the floor and his defensive tenacity are highlighted as key factors driving the Thunder's success.

Fan Identity and Legacy

The episode delves into the complex identity of Thunder fans, shaped by the team's controversial origins and subsequent achievements. Tyler Parker articulates the duality of being a Thunder fan:

"There's this weird double identity that goes with being a Thunder fan... part of the identity not just of the squad, but of the franchise." (29:56)

Jordan Ritter Khan adds that the fan base's loyalty remains steadfast despite past grievances:

"They just should have named him the Oklahoma Thunder. But they were lucky that just the state has embraced them and has no choice." (24:35)

This unwavering support is portrayed as a cornerstone of the Thunder's resilience and ongoing success.

The Future of Seattle and Potential Expansion

A significant portion of the conversation turns to Seattle's yearning for an NBA team and the NBA's potential expansion back to the city. Tyler Parker discusses the anticipation surrounding Adam Silver's announcements:

"Jordan also thinks the return of the Sonics will help some people get over whatever hostility they still feel toward the Thunder." (51:51)

Jordan Ritter Khan anticipates a momentous first matchup between the Thunder and a resurrected Sonics team:

"When that happens... it will be a cathartic moment for many, many fans." (52:01)

The hosts speculate on the NBA's strategic considerations, including Seattle's cultural legacy and existing infrastructure, positioning it as a prime candidate for future expansion.

Conclusion: Embracing the Legacy and Looking Ahead

In wrapping up, Tyler Parker underscores the Thunder's unique position within the NBA and their representation of overlooked markets:

"If you live in a town with a high school mascot painted on a water tower... then I bet you can see yourself in the Oklahoma City Thunder." (35:49)

Jordan Ritter Khan emphasizes the team's blend of skill and passion, particularly highlighting Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's role as the face of the franchise:

"There's an artistry to what he does that is it makes it really fun to watch him." (43:20)

The episode concludes with a hopeful outlook on both the Thunder's future endeavors and the potential reinstatement of the Sonics, envisioning a harmonious coexistence that honors Seattle's storied NBA history.

Notable Quotes:

• Tyler Parker on Thunder's Defense:

  "They've got the best defense in the league." (04:20)

• Jordan Ritter Khan on Shai's Artistry:

  "He looks most like Jordan or like Kobe... like these great wings that can somehow like sit in recliners in the air and shoot these shots." (44:34)

• Discussion on Team Relocation Impact:

  "They lied. They manipulated the NBA. They duped the Sonics." (02:30)

Conclusion

"Blood and Thunder" offers a comprehensive and passionate exploration of the Oklahoma City Thunder's journey from Seattle's lost Sonics to a beloved cornerstone of Oklahoma City. Through engaging discussions and insightful analysis, the episode not only chronicles the team's past struggles and triumphs but also paints a promising picture of their future in the NBA landscape.