Oklahoma City is set to welcome its first professional soccer franchise, OKC United, which will compete in the United Soccer League Championship beginning in 2028. The club's arrival marks a significant milestone for local sports enthusiasts and adds another layer to the city's growing athletic landscape.
A Crest Rooted in Oklahoma's Story
The team's crest was crafted by designer Matthew Wolff with creative oversight from NBA star Russell Westbrook. Central to the design is an arrowhead motif paired with 39 sun rays, a visual tribute to Oklahoma's Native American heritage. The palette — midnight blue, pink sunset, and ivory cloud — was chosen to reflect the state's distinctive sky at twilight.
From Concept to Identity
Before settling on OKC United, the organization evaluated several candidate names, including OKC Bison FC, OKC Lightning FC, OKC Thunderbird FC, and OKC Wind FC. The final selection was reached after extensive community input and branding workshops, ensuring the name resonated with local fans and honored the region's identity.
Investors Back the Vision
The ownership group reads like a who's who of Oklahoma sports figures. Russell Westbrook leads a consortium that also includes Christian Kanady, Jalen Williams, Baker Mayfield, Jozy Altidore, and Sydney McLaughlin‑Levrone. Their involvement brings both financial resources and high‑profile visibility to the project, signaling strong confidence in the club's long‑term prospects.
Beyond the boardroom, OKC United aims to foster community engagement through youth programs, local partnerships, and outreach initiatives. The club's leadership emphasizes that the team will serve as a unifying force, celebrating the city's diverse cultural fabric while providing a platform for emerging talent.