As the Oklahoma City Thunder prepare to face the Indiana Pacers in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals, local businesses across Oklahoma City are gearing up for what could be a record-breaking night of revenue and fan turnout.
Following a near-historic Game 6, local bar owners say they are preparing for even more intense crowds and excitement on Sunday evening, when the championship-deciding Game 7 will be played.
Restaurants and Bars Report Massive Spike in Business
Multiple bars told News 9 that Game 6 drew one of the largest customer volumes they’ve seen in years.
“It’s not uncommon for us to have a lot of volume,” said Ryan Noe, General Manager at Social Capital, located near downtown OKC. “But last night, I have not seen that many people on the property all at once. I think that set a record. We were close to having the biggest sales day we’ve ever had in six to seven years of business.”
Just blocks away, The Jones Assembly saw a similar surge.
“It’s hard to say exactly, but on Game 6, I’d estimate over 2,000 people passed through our building throughout the day,” said Scott Marsh, Partner and Director of Operations. “We’re expecting even more for Game 7.”
Big Plans for Game 7: Early Openings, Food Trucks, Outdoor Screens
To accommodate the anticipated demand, many establishments are expanding their operations for Sunday’s high-stakes finale.
Bars plan to open early, add more bartenders, invite food trucks, and even expand seating areas to enhance the fan experience.
The Jones Assembly, for instance, is collaborating with the city to close off nearby streets for a massive outdoor viewing event.
“We’re going to close the street next to us for Game 7,” Marsh said. “We’ll have a giant screen, outdoor seating, and extra space for fans. We’re expanding due to the incredible demand.”
Oklahoma City Chamber: Economic Boom Fueled by Finals
According to Cynthia Reid, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications for the Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, the NBA Finals have already had a major impact on the local economy—particularly for hotels, bars, and restaurants.
“People feel like watching the game is a community activity,” Reid said. “It’s hard to replicate that excitement at home. So, we’re definitely seeing a big impact on restaurants and hospitality businesses.”
Reid added that Oklahoma City is also hosting several other major events this month, including the Women’s College World Series, which has only added to the influx of visitors and hotel bookings.
“I spoke with one of our downtown hotel managers this morning, and he told me they’ve been booked solid for weeks,” Reid noted. “This is a great time to be in the hotel and restaurant business downtown.”
Community Spirit and Economic Impact Intertwine
The Oklahoma City Thunder’s run to the NBA Finals has unified the community and provided a massive economic boost to local businesses.
Game 7 is expected to not only determine a national champion but also break new ground in downtown OKC’s hospitality industry.
“Watching the Finals together is about more than basketball,” said Reid. “It’s about community pride, shared moments, and a chance to put Oklahoma City on the national stage.”
With Game 7 of the NBA Finals set for Sunday, the excitement is reaching a fever pitch in Oklahoma City.
Businesses are preparing for unprecedented traffic, fans are rallying in full force, and the Thunder are just one win away from securing the city’s second-ever NBA title.
As streets close and bars expand their setups, all eyes will be on Oklahoma City, not just for basketball—but for how a city can rally, celebrate, and thrive together.