The Ringer NBA Show
Blood and Thunder
Apr 16, 2025
Tyler Parker, a novelist and devoted Thunder fan from Oklahoma, joins forces with Jordan Ritter Conn, host of Sonic Boom, to explore the emotional journey of the Oklahoma City Thunder. They discuss the franchise's unlikely rise as a contender amidst the superteam trend. The duo reflects on the impact of the Seattle relocation and its lingering effects on fans. They also highlight the exciting potential of the current team and ponder the possibility of reviving the Seattle SuperSonics, blending nostalgia with the hopes for the future.
58:53
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Quick takeaways
- The Oklahoma City Thunder's success story showcases how a small market team can thrive through strategic long-term planning amid the superteam era.
- The historical resentment from Seattle fans towards the Thunder highlights the complex emotional landscape surrounding the franchise's origins and potential future.
Deep dives
Seattle's Loss and Oklahoma City's Gain
The history surrounding the relocation of the Seattle Supersonics to Oklahoma City is marked by betrayal and controversy, particularly due to the actions of the team's ownership. Initially, the new owners misled Seattle fans by promising to keep the team, only to ultimately relocate it when public funding for a new stadium was denied. The cultural identity of Seattle, with its rich music scene and historic significance to basketball, makes the loss feel even more acute for fans, who still harbor resentment towards the Thunder's existence. This historical context invites respect for the ongoing anger of Seattle fans, acknowledging their rightful grievances while navigating the complex feelings associated with the Thunder's success.
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