The Oklahoma City Thunder announced their local broadcast and streaming plans for the 2026-27 NBA season on Thursday, August 27, 2026. The team is launching the Thunder Gameday Network, a modern hybrid viewing model anchored by a new direct-to-fan streaming service called Thunder+. This news arrives as the team looks to rebound from a tough playoff exit, having lost their last four games including a 103-111 defeat to the San Antonio Spurs on May 31, 2026.
What are the new viewing options for Thunder fans?
The Thunder Gameday Network is an expanded collection of viewing options designed to replace the now-defunct FanDuel Sports Network. It will debut with the team's first five preseason games in October. The network's regular-season launch is set for a home game against the Los Angeles Clippers on October 25.
The centerpiece is Thunder+, a subscription streaming service available through the NBA App. It will be accessible across most or all of the Thunder's five-state broadcast region: Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, Nebraska, and Missouri. Thunder+ will cost $19.99 per month or $108.99 for a full season subscription. Fans who sign up between September 8 and 30 will get a special season price of $99.99.
In addition to live games, Thunder+ will feature on-demand full game replays and recaps for the entire season. The broadcast team remains unchanged, featuring Chris Fisher on play-by-play, analyst Michael Cage, and reporters Nick Gallo, Paris Lawson, and Royce Young.
Where else can I watch Thunder games on TV?
OKC has also enhanced its local and regional television distribution through a partnership with Griffin Media. With the exception of 15 exclusive national broadcasts, the remaining 67 regular-season games will be available via COX and DirecTV. This includes a select number of free over-the-air games.
Griffin Media will produce a 30-minute pregame show from its studios for every local broadcast. The show will feature broadcasters from both Griffin and the Thunder, including News 9 sports director Toby Rowland, News On 6 sports director John Holcomb, Thunder reporter Steve McGehee, News 9 sports reporter Evan Kamikow, and members of the Thunder's own broadcast team. You can track the team's progress and upcoming matchups on our [fixtures](/fixtures) page.
What did team and network executives say about the deal?
Dan Mahoney, vice president of broadcasting for the Thunder, explained the reasoning behind the new model. "The changing landscape of local and regional TV sports provided us the opportunity to reimagine our broadcast distribution," Mahoney said. "This modern hybrid approach is designed to meet fans where they are, offering multiple ways to watch, from streaming to cable and satellite to free over-the-air television."
Mahoney highlighted the expanded partnership with Griffin Media and the new direct relationship with the NBA for Thunder+. The service allows viewers to watch on a wide variety of platforms, from mobile devices to connected TVs.
Wade Deaver, president of Griffin Media, expressed pride in the expanded partnership. "As a locally owned company, we are proud to continue and expand our partnership with the Oklahoma City Thunder," Deaver stated. "Covering the Thunder since its first season in Oklahoma City, we've seen the passion Thunder fans have for their team firsthand." He added that everyone at Griffin Media is excited to bring games to viewers across Oklahoma again this year.
How does this fit with the team's current situation?
The announcement provides a forward-looking boost for a franchise in a transitional period. The Thunder's recent form shows one win and four losses in their last five outings, with that lone victory coming before a string of four consecutive defeats. The new broadcasting strategy aims to keep fans connected as the team builds for the future. Ensuring easy access to games is vital for maintaining fan engagement during a rebuild, and the Thunder Gameday Network directly addresses that need with flexible, modern options.
