Blue Alliance Spotlight - Ricky Manning

How did you get started as a Blue Alliance Captain? My family and I were watching the Thunder play on television, and my children saw the Thunder Blue Alliance commercial on how to become a captain for your hometown. They immediately suggested I submit my name to be a captain, which I did, not sure on what to expect. After I was notified that I was selected as a captain, I immediately began to spread the Thunder spirit throughout the community and beyond.

What got you hooked on the Thunder?

The opportunity to support a professional team that represents our great state of Oklahoma. I find it amazing how successful our team has been since 2008, and our fans have been noticed as giving the Thunder the best home-court advantage in the NBA.

How many members do you have in your Blue Alliance Chapter?

We currently have 554 members, with three members who have recently been promoted to captains in other towns. We have a great group of members who really make our chapter an active one. It is my privilege to represent the Thunder organization and a great group of Thunder fans.

What’s been your favorite moment as a Blue Alliance Captain?

Group night last season, when the Pauls Valley chapter got to experience going out on the floor after a game for a group photo. Just seeing everyone's faces at that moment made me smile.

What’s your top goal for your chapter this season?

To maintain an active group by sharing the Thunder spirit throughout Garvin County and the state. I plan on doing this by spreading team news, sharing pictures and stories from my own experiences, and conducting watch parties, and I believe in supporting other chapters in assisting with their watch parties.

How many pieces of Thunder gear do you own? Other than my decked-out pickup, I have a closetful; however, I believe my wife and children have me beat. They love going to the games, making our season tickets a true value to the family.

Want to learn more about becoming a Blue Alliance member? Click here.