Paycom Center: Oklahoma City’s Premier Sports and Entertainment Hub

When working with Paycom Center, a multi‑purpose indoor arena in downtown Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Also known as Chesapeake Energy Arena, it serves as the home court for the Oklahoma City Thunder, the NBA franchise based in Oklahoma City and hosts concerts, NBA games, and a range of other events. The venue also falls under the broader NBA, the professional basketball league that drives national interest and media coverage ecosystem.

Why the arena matters to fans and the city

Fans love Paycom Center because it blends the roar of a packed basketball night with the glow of a sold‑out concert. With a seating capacity of around 22,000, the arena can switch from a hardwood court to a massive stage in minutes, thanks to modular flooring and state‑of‑the‑art rigging points. The presence of the Oklahoma City Thunder gives the venue a built‑in fan base, while the NBA’s marketing machine brings national TV crews, sponsorships, and high‑profile events that boost the city’s profile.

The arena’s naming‑rights partner, Paycom, highlights how corporate sponsorship fuels modern sports facilities. The deal not only funds upgrades like the 4K LED scoreboard but also supports community programs, such as youth basketball clinics and local music festivals. This partnership creates a feedback loop: a better fan experience draws more crowds, which in turn makes the venue more attractive to sponsors.

Location matters, too. Sitting next to the Bricktown Canal, the arena fuels downtown revitalization. Restaurants, bars, and hotels see a surge in foot traffic on game nights and concert evenings, turning a single event into an economic engine for Oklahoma City. Public transit routes, bike lanes, and ample parking were designed around the venue, making it accessible for locals and visitors alike.

Beyond basketball and concerts, the arena hosts college tournaments, esports championships, and charity galas. Each event introduces a new audience to the space, expanding its utility and keeping the calendar full year‑round. That diversity means the arena isn’t just a sports site; it’s a cultural hub that reflects the city’s growing appetite for live experiences.

Below you’ll find a curated list of stories that dive deeper into the Thunder’s performance, the arena’s latest upgrades, standout concerts, and the broader impact of large‑scale venues on urban life. Whether you’re planning a visit, following the NBA season, or curious about how a modern arena operates, the articles ahead give you practical insight and fresh angles on everything that makes Paycom Center a centerpiece of Oklahoma City’s entertainment scene.