Oklahoma City Thunder mascot Rumble the Bison has been nominated for Best NBA Mascot in the USA Today Sports Readers' Choice Awards.
Fans aged 18 and older can cast one vote per day through Wednesday, October 21. The ten mascots receiving the most votes in the category will be named winners. Voting is open online now.
Rumble is no stranger to league-wide acclaim. He was named the NBA Mascot of the Year back in 2009, a major honor in the mascot community. His impact extends far beyond game nights at Paycom Center.
In 2022, Rumble received the inaugural Community Impact Award at the NBA Mascot Conference. This highlighted his consistent work off the court. He makes appearances at more than 200 community events every single year, connecting with fans across Oklahoma.
Mascot awards might seem separate from on-court performance, but they reflect the organization's broader connection with its supporters.
The nomination is a point of pride for the franchise. It shows the value of the game-day experience and fan interaction, which are vital for any NBA team's identity. A vibrant mascot program complements the basketball product and helps maintain a strong home-court atmosphere.
The immediate focus for fans is supporting Rumble in the daily voting contest. A win would be another feather in the cap for one of the league's most recognizable mascots.
On the court, the team will analyze its recent series against the Spurs. Finding consistency will be key moving forward.
Fans wanting to follow the team's progress can check the upcoming schedule for the next opportunities to see Rumble and the squad in action. His high-flying dunks and antics are a staple of the Thunder entertainment package, win or lose.
Voting for Rumble is a simple way for the Thunder faithful to show their support beyond the scoreboard. It celebrates an integral part of the game night that brings energy to every quarter.
