Can fan loyalty be a genetically inherited trait? We’re inclined to think so, at least based on the Thunder mania of Janice Weise and her daughter, Stephanie Oseland. Both women share an unflagging devotion to their hometown team, the Oklahoma City Thunder.
“We have a very enthusiastic interest in the Thunder,” said Janice, 62.
That’s putting it mildly, and these Season Ticket Members have the Thunder shirts, basketballs, caps, coats, flags, posters, mobile phone covers, stuffed toys, car floor mats, dog dishes, bumper stickers and Rumble bobblehead to prove it.
“My husband kids me that there is not a single Thunder item I don't own,” said Stephanie, 37. “He is, of course, exaggerating. My Thunder toaster is on back order.”
She’s kidding -- we think.
“When I attended that first [Thunder] game, I was amazed at the pride that I felt for my state and the excitement for the love of the game,” she said. “It is still a feeling I have at every single game.”
The team, Stephanie said, has a lot to do with that.
“I think it is their work ethic and joy in what they are doing,” she continued. “Oklahomans are hardworking people and respect that quality in others. When I see the team playing as a true team with smiles on their faces, it makes me love them even more.”
Janice echoes her daughter’s sentiments.
“It has been a great experience to bring my daughter and me closer,” she said. “We love to shop and do these things together, but nothing can compare to Thunder basketball and the camaraderie we get from it. It is amazing excitement and we so much love it.”
Mothers, daughters, fathers, sons and everyone else are invited to THUNDERALLY, an online, interactive community for Thunder fans.Phil Bacharach is the Director of Corporate Communications for the Thunder. He is looking for die-hard Thunder fans throughout the world. If you or somebody you know bleeds Thunder blue, contact Phil by clicking here