Oklahoma City Thunder Continue Sole NBA Team Using Pregame Invocation

Rev. James L. Dunbar, senior pastor of Greater Cleaves Memorial Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, delivered a pregame invocation before the Oklahoma City Thunder’s playoff game against the Utah Jazz on April 18, 2018. The invocation, which included a prayer for the safety and well-being of players, coaches, officials, fans, and employees, marked a unique tradition in the National Basketball Association. No other NBA team practices this ritual, despite the league’s diverse cultural landscape.

The pregame invocation has been a part of Oklahoma City Thunder games since the team’s inaugural season in 2008-09. It originated during the 2005-06 and 2006-07 seasons when the New Orleans Hornets temporarily relocated to Oklahoma City following Hurricane Katrina. The Seattle SuperSonics later moved to Oklahoma City to become the Thunder, a name chosen in reference to the region’s frequent severe weather. The invocation, described as a non-denominational practice, has since become a signature element of the team’s pregame routine.

Oklahoma City Thunder officials have emphasized the significance of the invocation as a moment for reflection and prayer. Dan Mahoney, the team’s vice president of Broadcasting & Corporate Communications, noted that it provides fans with an opportunity to pray, reflect, or use the time as they choose. The tradition reflects the team’s commitment to honoring the spiritual and communal aspects of its fan base.

Utah Jazz coach Quin Snyder expressed respect for the Oklahoma City tradition, acknowledging that each franchise has unique practices. “I think every franchise has things that are unique to them,” Snyder said. “I have respect for everything that everybody is doing around the league.” This sentiment underscores the mutual respect among teams for the diverse customs that shape the NBA experience.

The invocation, while rooted in Christian tradition, is intentionally inclusive, reaching beyond any single denomination. This approach aligns with the broader mission of many historically Black denominations to foster unity and inclusivity within their communities. The practice serves as a reminder of the importance of shared values and mutual respect in public spaces.

The Oklahoma City Thunder’s pregame invocation stands as a testament to the enduring influence of faith-based traditions in modern sports culture. It highlights the role of religious leaders in shaping community identity and the ways in which faith can be woven into the fabric of public life. This practice, though singular in the NBA, reflects a broader commitment to honoring the spiritual dimensions of shared experiences.

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