Forum explores how sports momentum is creating opportunities across Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City's growing reputation as a destination for major sporting events and entertainment continues to create opportunities that extend far beyond the venues themselves. 

That was the focus of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber's June Forum, "Big League City: The Economic Impact of Sports and the Growing Spectrum of Opportunities for OKC," which brought together leaders from sports, hospitality, tourism and economic development to discuss how major events are shaping the city's future. 

Moderated by Adam Wisniewski, vice president of sports development for Visit Oklahoma City, the discussion featured Lucy Albers, director of marketing and public relations for Paycom Center; Tasha Houck-Barnett, director of sales and marketing for Embassy Suites by Hilton Oklahoma City Downtown Medical Center; Sue Hollenbeck, special projects manager for the City of Oklahoma City; and Michelle Matthews, associate vice president of fan development and retail for the Oklahoma City Thunder. 

Panelists highlighted the growing role sports and entertainment play in attracting visitors, generating economic activity and elevating Oklahoma City's national profile. From the Women's College World Series and Thunder playoff runs to future opportunities tied to the LA28 Olympic Games, Oklahoma City continues to build momentum as a destination for major events. 

For Hollenbeck, that success starts with investing in the facilities needed to host premier events. 

"Event 101 equals venue 101," Hollenbeck said. "You cannot have an event without a venue." 

She pointed to projects including the new downtown arena, MAPS 4 multipurpose stadium and continued improvements to sports facilities across the city as investments that position Oklahoma City to compete for larger events while supporting broader economic development goals. 

Matthews said the city's sports momentum has also helped strengthen Oklahoma City's identity on a national stage. 

"If you were here before the team and you heard the letters OKC, that would mean nothing to you," Matthews said. "Now when you hear the words OKC, it's immediately associated with a thriving city, a passionate fan base and a community that's ready for major events." 

Albers emphasized that the impact of major events should extend beyond the walls of a venue. She pointed to initiatives such as Thunder Open the Park and community activations throughout downtown as examples of how organizations can work together to spread economic benefits throughout the city. 

"We can't just be a team that's set out to sell tickets and make wins," Albers said. "If we're winning in a siloed way, that's not going to benefit us or anybody that lives here." 

That collaborative approach emerged as one of the forum's recurring themes. Panelists noted that Oklahoma City's willingness to bring together public, private and nonprofit partners has become a competitive advantage as the city attracts more events and visitors. 

The discussion also addressed workforce challenges that come with hosting multiple major events simultaneously. Houck-Barnett noted that growth across the hospitality industry has increased demand for workers while creating opportunities for career development throughout the sector. 

"We need to get more people who are interested in the hospitality business," Houck-Barnett said. "We're not big enough to compete with one another. We have to work together." 

Panelists encouraged local businesses to view themselves as part of the visitor experience, whether through hospitality, retail, dining or simply helping guests feel welcome during their time in Oklahoma City. 

As Oklahoma City prepares for future opportunities, including events connected to the 2028 Olympic Games, speakers said continued investment, collaboration and community engagement will be critical to maintaining the city's momentum. 

"The big takeaway is that you are all part of this process," Wisniewski said in closing. "The second that somebody enters the city, regardless of what type of event they are coming to attend, you are all part of that journey for them."