Oklahoma City has been named the No. 1 Best NBA City in the 2026 USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, adding another national accolade to a city riding high on basketball. The ranking recognizes Oklahoma City’s fan culture, game-day atmosphere and appeal as a sports destination. Paycom C enter was also ranked the No. 1 NBA arena, while its dining and concessions placed second nationally. Thunder mascot Rumble the Bison was named Best NBA Mascot. “Being named the No. 1 Best NBA City is a defining moment that reflects the bold vision, electric energy and fierce community pride driving Oklahoma City forward,” said Christy Gillenwater, president and CEO of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. Oklahoma City has built much of its modern sports identity around the Thunder since the franchise arrived in 2008. The team’s 2025 NBA Championship further raised the city’s national profile and brought increased attention to downtown Oklahoma City and its surrounding entertainment districts. “What makes Oklahoma City special is the incredible connection between our team, our fans and this community,” said Brian Byrnes, Oklahoma City Thunder senior vice president of Business Operations. “From the energy inside Paycom Center to the pride you feel throughout our city, there’s something truly unique about experiencing Thunder Basketball here.” According to Visit Oklahoma City, the city welcomes about 25 million visitors annually, generating an estimated $4.8 billion in economic impact. The Thunder alone is credited with an estimated $600 million economic impact. Paycom Center’s downtown location also places visiting fans within walking distance or a short trip from Bricktown, Scissortail Park, Myriad Gardens, the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum and a growing collection of restaurants and entertainment venues. The ranking comes as Oklahoma City continues to expand its sports tourism profile. In addition to NBA basketball, the city hosts collegiate championships, the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon and other major sporting events. Oklahoma City will also play a role in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, hosting softball and canoe slalom events. The post OKC named No. 1 Best NBA City appeared first on Oklahoma Gazette. ...read more read less