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During the 2025 NBA Finals held in Oklahoma City and Indiana, both franchises made significant contributions to their local communities. Collaborating with Emirates, the NBA leveraged its resources to revamp facilities at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County and Indianapolis via the NBA Cares Finals Legacy Projects.
The initiative involved a comprehensive makeover of the existing classroom areas, incorporating new technology, enhancements to the STEM Zone, and the creation of inviting spaces for reading and relaxation. Furthermore, updates were made to flooring, paint, and graphics in both locations.
“We aim to maintain authenticity and purpose in our efforts,” stated Erin Oldfield, Vice President of Community Engagement for the Oklahoma City Thunder. “Having the eyes of the world on OKC during the Finals presents a unique opportunity. We are committed to embracing the Thunder ethos: acting with sincerity and purpose while enjoying the journey.”
Corey Wilson, Senior Vice President of Community Engagement for Pacers Sports & Entertainment, emphasized the focus on depth rather than breadth when organizing these initiatives.
“This Legacy project underscores the substantial influence that the NBA, Pacers Sports Entertainment, and the Indiana Pacers are having on community organizations throughout the state,” Wilson remarked.
The NBA Finals serve as a catalyst for building a legacy not just for players, but also for the local community. In Oklahoma, the objective is to foster a welcoming atmosphere in a rapidly developing city.
“We are in the midst of shaping our narrative,” Oldfield noted. “As a young team with much to offer in a vibrant and evolving city, we are in the process of building our legacy by ensuring that students, families, and individuals are equipped for future success.”
Creating an engaging environment for children was a priority for the Pacers, with limitless future possibilities on the horizon.
“This is a fantastic space, and we’re now exploring how we can utilize it for additional opportunities across our other facilities,” Wilson explained. “In 49 other states, it’s just basketball, but here in Indiana, it’s something more.”
The newly renovated area at Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County features a revamped lounge at Boys & Girls Clubs of Indianapolis.
A key aspect of the Thunder’s renovations involved bringing their branding to the walls, allowing kids to visualize and feel a sense of belonging to the Thunder family. Various tasks commenced to prepare the space, including updating graphics, furnishing, and installing new televisions and gaming systems.
“The Boys & Girls Club has been a community ally since our team’s relocation to Oklahoma in 2008,” Oldfield shared. “Whenever we enter the playoffs, the excitement stirs within our teams to connect with organizations and hold discussions.”
The event left a lasting impression, especially when Commissioner Adam Silver, Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum, and players from both the Thunder and Pacers addressed the attendees at the Boys & Girls Club.
“I am confident that these kids will remember this experience and be inspired to dream big. Access to this space is invaluable for them,” Oldfield emphasized.
In a similar vein, the Pacers pooled their resources to refurbish a multipurpose room, infusing it with the energy and vibrancy of the Finals. Utilizing insights gained from hosting the 2024 All-Star Weekend, they executed the Legacy Project effectively.
“Finding partners who share our vision and can act swiftly is crucial,” Wilson stated. “Another distinctive aspect of this initiative was the support from other corporate sponsors, which contributed to its success.”
Backpacks were distributed as part of the renovations.
Several Pacers players, including Bennedict Mathurin, Enrique Freeman, Ben Sheppard, Johnny Furphy, and RayJ Davis, participated in the event.
Having players engaging with the community is always a heartwarming experience, as their presence brings joy to the children. Mathurin was particularly reluctant to leave the venue, wanting to continue playing foosball with the kids.
“Seeing these young individuals looking up—both literally and metaphorically—to the players creates a unique moment, especially for many of them who are encountering these athletes for the first time,” Wilson reflected.
Thunder players such as Nikola Topić, Branden Carlson, Dillon Jones, Adam Flagler, and Alex Ducas attended the event, making themselves more accessible to the youth.
These initiatives begin in the preseason as the team collaborates with community members on personal projects to ensure players establish a presence in the community from day one. Activities range from visiting senior centers to engaging with schools, demonstrating the Thunder’s commitment to building connections.
“It’s like capturing lightning in a bottle,” Oldfield remarked. “What this team has right now is irreplaceable. It’s so special to witness, and it has truly excited the fan base.”
