Paycom Center: Not a Relic From the Stone Age (But Close...Ish)
So, you're planning a trip to Oklahoma City and want to catch a game at the mighty Paycom Center, home of the Oklahoma City Thunder. You're probably wondering how long this arena has been slam dunking and rocking out. Well, buckle up, history buff (or maybe just curious couch potato), because we're about to take a trip down memory lane that (hopefully) won't involve dial-up internet.
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| How Old Is The Paycom Center In Oklahoma City |
From Dirt Lot to Dazzling Arena: A Brief History of Paycom Center
Believe it or not, the Paycom Center wasn't always the sleek entertainment venue it is today. In fact, its story starts back in the late 90s, when the area it occupies was probably just a dusty patch of land yearning for its close-up.
The visionary folks of Oklahoma City cooked up a plan called MAPS (Metropolitan Area Projects - yes, it's definitely not the most exciting name). This plan involved a temporary sales tax increase to fund a bunch of cool projects, including a brand new downtown arena. Construction began in 1999, and by 2002, the Paycom Center (then known as the Ford Center, because, well, car commercials) opened its doors to the cheering public.
Fun Fact: The Ford Center name came from a deal with Oklahoma Ford Dealers, not the whole Ford Motor Company thing. So, technically, it wasn't named after that rusty F-150 in your uncle's driveway.
QuickTip: Reread for hidden meaning.
So, How Old is this Arena, Really?
Drumroll please... The Paycom Center celebrated its 22nd birthday in June 2022. That means it's old enough to order a celebratory drink (if arenas could drink, which they probably shouldn't), but not quite ready to rent a tuxedo (unless formal wear for arenas is a thing, which would be pretty awesome).
Sure, it's not the Colosseum, but it's definitely witnessed its fair share of epic sporting moments and electrifying concerts. Who knows, maybe you'll be there to witness the next legendary event!
Frequently Asked Questions (Because We Know You Have Them)
How to get to Paycom Center?
Note: Skipping ahead? Don’t miss the middle sections.
The arena is located in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City. There are plenty of parking options nearby, or you can utilize public transportation.
How to snag tickets for an event?
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Head over to the Paycom Center website or your favorite ticketing platform to see what's on offer and grab those seats!
Tip: Reflect on what you just read.
How loud can it get inside the Paycom Center?
Very loud. Especially during a Thunder game. Bring earplugs if you scare easily (or have a delicate sense of hearing).
How much does it cost to park near the Paycom Center?
Tip: Don’t skim — absorb.
Parking prices can vary depending on the event. Check the arena's website for more information.
How long does a typical event at Paycom Center last?
This depends on the type of event. Concerts can range from 2-3 hours, while sporting events typically last around 2-3 hours as well (although overtime is always a possibility in the world of basketball).
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