OKLAHOMA CITY, Wednesday, September 3, 2008 - At 5 p.m. today, the NBA franchise in Oklahoma City was officially named Thunder at a name and logo unveiling event in downtown Oklahoma City. At 5:15 p.m., the Thundershop was opened on the ground floor of the Leadership Square building and more than 1,000 fans made their way through the front doors.
Team officials say approximately 1,500 fans attended today's name and logo unveiling event with the majority of them making their way to the Thundershop. Fans waited several hours to purchase Thunder merchandise, and each customer averaged at least two items per purchase.
"We were impressed with the great response from the fans in Oklahoma City," said team spokesman Dan Mahoney. "We had customers lined up for several hundred feet outside the Thundershop. We appreciate everyone's response to today's announcement."
Following the event, Thunder players Desmond Mason and Damien Wilkins joined the festivities in the Thundershop. Both purchased Thunder merchandise, while Wilkins helped out some of the fans by bagging their items.
The ThunderShop will be open on the lobby level of Leadership Square from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Fans can also purchase Thunder merchandise on-line at www.nbathundershop.com.