Thunder won't visit White House due to 'timing issue'

Field Level Media|published: Fri 20th March, 15:28 2026

Jun 22, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) holds up his NBA Finals Bill Russell MVP trophy at the end of game seven of the 2025 NBA Finals after defeating the Indiana Pacers at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

The reigning NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder will not visit the White House during their trip to the nation's capital this weekend.

A Thunder spokesperson confirmed Friday that a "timing issue" will prevent the team from making the traditional appearance.

"We have been in touch with the White House and we are appreciative and grateful for the communication we have had, but the timing just didn't work out," the Thunder said in a statement shared with The Athletic.

Oklahoma City, currently riding a 10-game winning streak, visits the Washington Wizards on Saturday at 5 p.m. ET before heading to Philadelphia to face the 76ers on Monday night.

The Thunder defeated the Indiana Pacers in seven games last June to win the franchise's first championship since the Seattle SuperSonics claimed the title in 1978-79.

--Field Level Media

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