The Oklahoma City Thunder has formally entered the debate around legalizing sports wagering in Oklahoma, seeking a seat at the table amid ongoing legislative discussions.
As the state studies potential regulatory frameworks, the NBA franchise has introduced a proposal that could redefine how both retail and online sportsbooks operate within Oklahoma.
The Thunder Suggests a Single-license Model
Will Syring, Thunder’s VP of Corporate Sponsorships, proposed a single statewide license for retail sportsbooks and mobile wagering. The license would belong to the team or a tribal consortium approved by state and tribal governments.
Approved retail operators and mobile platforms could run the license, ensuring unified oversight and regulation.
The plan grants the Thunder 0.25% of total betting handle, matching the federal sports wagering excise tax rate.
Revenue would be shared collectively among Oklahoma’s tribal nations and the Thunder, aligning the interests of both the state’s sovereign gaming operators and its professional sports franchise.
Moreover, the team emphasized that legalized online sportsbooks in Oklahoma should operate under this joint state-tribal framework, ensuring compliance, transparency, and shared benefits.
Oklahoma Sports Betting: Historical issues for legislators
Efforts to legalize sports betting in Oklahoma have repeatedly faced roadblocks. A major obstacle lies in the tribal exclusivity rights guaranteed under gaming compacts between the state and the tribes.
These compacts give tribes exclusive gambling rights in return for annual payments and shared revenue with the state.
Tribal leaders warn that letting non-tribal operators run online sportsbooks could violate compacts and cause legal disputes.
Meanwhile, state lawmakers have continued to introduce bills seeking a workable compromise, though none have yet succeeded.
House Bill 1047, introduced on January 2, 2025, and amended on March 6, 2025, aimed to authorize in-person sports betting through tribal casinos while leaving online wagering for later consideration.
Despite House support, Governor Kevin Stitt opposed the bill, citing concerns over state control and revenue terms. The governor’s opposition effectively stalled the bill before it could advance further.
House Bill 1101, introduced in February 3, 2025, attempted to expand on previous efforts by outlining a framework for both retail and online sports betting.
However, the bill stalled in committee amid disagreements over how revenue would be shared between the state and the tribes.
These setbacks highlight Oklahoma’s struggle between legalizing sports betting and protecting tribal compact rights.
Potential Direction of Sports Betting Legalization in Oklahoma
The Thunder’s involvement could mark a turning point. Their proposal offers a potential middle ground between protecting tribal exclusivity and expanding mobile participation through online sportsbooks.
If lawmakers embrace the single-license model, Oklahoma could create a structure that respects tribal sovereignty while unlocking new state revenue.
Still, challenges remain. The tribes must agree to any revenue-sharing terms that include the Thunder, and lawmakers must ensure compliance with existing compacts.
As neighboring states continue to profit from legalized betting, Oklahoma faces increasing pressure to act.
With the Thunder’s involvement, growing public backing, and renewed legislative focus, Oklahoma’s push for legal sports betting could advance.
That said, bettors can explore our list of trusted US online sportsbooks that offer accessible and safe experiences.