From tragedy to triumph, the Thunder and their fans bond and put Oklahoma City on the world stage

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Isaiah Hartenstein never expected a museum visit to be life-altering.

Before the 7-foot center even signed his free agent contract with Oklahoma City two years ago, Thunder general manager Sam Presti told him onboarding would include a trip to the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, the site where 168 people were killed on April 19, 1995.

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Presti requires new players to go so they can understand what the locals endured as a result of the Oklahoma City bombing at the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building.

The bombing itself didn’t stick with Hartenstein nearly as much as the aftermath. The community’s collective spirit moved him so much that he produced a 14-minute documentary called “The Oklahoma Standard.” Journalists and visiting first responders coined the phrase after being impressed with the way everyday people from the surrounding area aided the victims and rescue teams.

The mentality — to rise in the face of catastrophe, help collectively, rebuild, then do it all again if necessary — has carried the city through major tornadoes in 1999, 2003 and 2013. It’s a major part of the way Okies define themselves.

“We know when we put on the jersey what we’re playing for,” Hartenstein said. “I have a lot of respect for that.”

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Presti has infused Oklahoma City’s first major professional sports team with a similar standard since it arrived from Seattle in 2008, from roster makeup to the franchise’s emphasis on community service.

The Thunder have developed one of the most rabid fanbases in the league, with the upper bowl of the Paycom Center being affectionately known as “Loud City.” A sports community that might differ on backing Oklahoma or Oklahoma State in football finds common ground for the team that put their city in the spotlight. After Oklahoma City defeated Indiana to win the its first championship last season, thousands celebrated during the victory parade.

“They work hard, they play hard,” longtime season ticketholder “Thunder Rob” Shahan said of the players. “As an Oklahoman, we’re not afraid to roll up our sleeves….

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/tragedy-triumph-thunder-fans-bond-155011471.html

Author : CLIFF BRUNT

Publish date : 2026-04-24 15:50:00

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