Continued Traditions: Brooklyn Nets Headed to OKC for Holiday Matchup

The Thunder will play their 16th consecutive New Year's Eve game in the 2022-23 season, with a matchup against Brooklyn on the schedule.

The Oklahoma City Thunder have established a New Year’s Even tradition, playing on that night for 15 consecutive years. When the NBA schedule for the 2023-24 season released on Thursday, it was revealed that this will continue for yet another. This means this has been a staple event since the team relocated to OKC, notching 16 in a row this season.

At 6:00 p.m. CT on Dec. 31, Oklahoma City will host the Brooklyn Nets, in what could be a pivotal time. Last season, the turn of the calendar year was really when the Thunder started to figure things out. The Nets are in an interesting position entering this season, so it’s unclear exactly how competitive they will be. Regardless, Mikal Bridges is set for a breakout campaign and will make this an exciting matchup.

Last season on New Year’s Eve, Oklahoma City was blown out by the Philadelphia 76ers by nearly 20 points. The season prior, the Thunder defeated the New York Knicks by 15.

Before this tradition continues, Oklahoma City will kick off its season in Chicago on Oct. 25 against the Bulls.

Again, the Thunder will be looking to take a huge step forward this season. A good close to the year 2023 and momentum entering 2024 could end up being more important than many would think. 

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For more on the Thunder's 2023-24 schedule, the Inside the Thunder team has more breakdowns and coverage. 

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