by Damon Hayes-Milligan on March 3, 2009 (photo by themikelee, available under a CC license)

OKC Thunder, Oklahoma City Thunder, P.J. Carlesimo, Sex in the City, Thunder Basketball, Thunderhead!

As I sat down to start writing my first story on the OKC Thunder, it became clear to me: This aint no Sex in the City, shoe shopping, Cosmo drinking  kind of story. Also, it is written by a gay guy. If you are looking for a ‘play by play’ article critiquing every move the Thunder makes then by all means move to a different author. The articles that I plan to write will be thoughtful and meaningful, however they will also bring some color to the team on a rolling basis.

The idea of evolution seems appropriate when you think of the OKC Thunder; especially considering their inaugural season in Oklahoma City. The team moved from Seattle where although they had a rich past, their future was drying up faster then the team could win games. Oklahoma City knew this and was prepared for a losing team and sold the move to the fans as a ‘rebuilding period’. Little did the “Thunderheads” know that this meant the team was going to suck right out of the gate. P.J. Carlesimo was, and has to be, one of the league’s worst coaches! He had no thunder in his heart and as such the team played like he coached, bland and boring.

Over time the team synced up and you can see more moments of clarity for the players, coaching staff and fellow Thunderheads such as myself. Days after Carlesimo was fired, the team visibly started playing harder and seemed to have a new flame in their eye. Hell, there was even more butt patting between the players! And let’s be honest, folks.  Win or lose, butt patting makes everyone feel good about the game (Ah, Nick Collision #4).  Game after game I continue to scream encouragement to our boys,  returning to work like all the other Thunderheads unable to speak above a whisper. Whether its whispering, yelling, or somewhere in between, everyone’s talking Thunder.

Although I am the last person to offer official criticism of the Thunder Girls, (since I have no cheer leading ability and don’t  look good in drag or holding pom-poms) I think the team should add some male cheerleaders.  At the very least bring the “Boot Crew” back to the games and let them throw  balls at my face as I watch amused from behind the goal. (Although balls, baskets, boots, and cowboy hats make watching the game too confusing some times.)

I am proud of the progress that the Thunder seems to be making and they seem to have a new life when they come out to play. Kevin Durant is the clear leader of the team, from his salutes after a three point shot to his colorful use of metaphors to describe his disappointment with himself or his team. (Note to KD: We can read your lips and no matter what others say, I know you’re mouthing sweet nothings to me.)

The Thunder has a new energy and passion for playing, this much is clear. They continue to grow and mature into their new identity and new home in Oklahoma City. If the team continues to communicate and stay true to their roots (shout out to Robert Swift ’cause he is fierce with the hair) they will continue to build on their recent successes. Thunder players: Take solace in knowing you have a strong and supportive group of fans that will be there to hold your hands as you move and grow through your evolution into a finals worthy team!

Keep the Thunder Rolling!

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