With the demise of the RSN ecosystem, NBA teams are having to invent new systems for delivering their games to fans. And the Oklahoma City Thunder are taking a brand new approach.
Teams had a great setup with the revenue that came from regional sports networks. But as the system has collapsed, we have seen clubs either try for an all-streaming approach that can make all their games available in one place at a subscription fee to try to recoup some of those funds. Swinging in the other direction, teams have prioritized over-the-air broadcasts to maximize reach and grow their fanbase in more traditional means.
The Thunder are going to try to do both, even exploring the ancient world of cable television.
According to Sports Business Journal, the Thunder have struck a local media deal with Griffin Media that will see games air on a variety of local affiliates throughout the region, though these games will not always be available over-the-air. In total, 10 Thunder games will be available over-the-air, six on independent stations KSBI (Oklahoma City) and KQCW (Tulsa), and four on CBS affiliates KWTV (OKC) and KOTV (Tulsa).
The rest of the team’s local broadcast schedule will still air on these local affiliate stations, but only if you’re a Cox cable subscriber or DirecTV satellite subscriber. That means, other than the 10 games set aside for over-the-air broadcasts, fans will not be able to access Thunder games through an antenna, even if they have signal for these stations.
The Thunder have been one of the most successful NBA franchises in recent years, winning the title in 2024 and reaching the conference finals in 2025 before losing out in an epic seven-game series against the San Antonio Spurs. But they also have one of the smallest markets in all of the four major pro sports leagues. The cable and satellite portions of the deal will allow fans across the state and beyond to have a way to gain access.
As for streaming, instead of linking up with DAZN as many other teams have done, Oklahoma City will be launching Thunder+ through the NBA app with live games and replays available at $19.99 per month or $108.99 for the season.
Given the Thunder’s success, it’s a smart and novel approach to try to get as much exposure, revenue, and reach as possible. Instead of trying to choose which direction to go, why not try to have it all? At the very least, it provides another data point for all teams to explore as they navigate the new local media landscape.
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