Oklahoma City, Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2009 – The Oklahoma City Thunder takes on the Utah Jazz on New Year’s Eve, Thursday, Dec. 31 at the Ford Center and festivities for the game include a special halftime performance, the last remaining player-worn shoes to be auctioned off and a special offer for the Arts Council of Oklahoma City’s “Opening Night” New Year’s Eve celebration.
The New Year's Eve game will include entertainment by former American Idol contestant, Matt Giraud. Giraud debuted in the show’s eighth season and recently has performed on national television for “Live w/ Regis and Kelly”, “Ellen Show”, “Tonight Show with Jay Leno”, “Larry King Live and the Today Show”. On Friday, he will perform the national anthem, as well as halftime. The Thunder will also host an in-arena promotion for the chance to meet Giraud after the game.
Also on Thursday the 31st, the last remaining pairs of player-worn and autographed orange shoes, including Kevin Durant’s, will be available for auction. Fans can bid on the shoes at the auction table on the concourse outside Section 120. All proceeds benefit the Thunder Community Foundation, which helps support the Thunder’s efforts to make a positive impact on the community. The players wore the shoes during their game vs. Dallas on Dec. 16. The second round of orange shoes will be auctioned off this Saturday when the Thunder plays the Charlotte Bobcats.
The Thunder and the Oklahoma City Arts Council are teaming up to provide fans with a New Year’s package that includes a ticket to Thursday’s game and a wristband to “Opening Night” for $26. Fans can start their New Year’s Eve celebration early in downtown at the Ford Center by attending the game and then enjoy the “Opening Night” New Year’s festivities. Fans can purchase packages at (405) 208-HOOP.Other Thunder News