WASHINGTON – The Oklahoma City Thunder, reigning NBA champions, have declined a traditional visit to the White House during their trip to the nation’s capital this weekend, citing scheduling conflicts. The decision comes as the team prepares for a Saturday matchup against the Washington Wizards.
The Thunder, led by stars Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren, and including German national team player Isaiah Hartenstein, had the opportunity to meet with President Donald Trump during this trip. Though, a team spokesperson stated, “We were in contact with the White House and are grateful for and appreciate the communication, but the timing simply did not perform out.” The statement, initially reported by The Athletic, underscores the complexities surrounding White House visits for championship teams.
This isn’t the first instance of a team opting out of a White House ceremony under the Trump administration. The practice of teams visiting the President after winning a championship dates back decades, but it has grow increasingly politicized in recent years. The Thunder’s decision follows a similar move by the U.S. Women’s National Hockey Team, who also cited scheduling issues after their Olympic victory in Italy.
The situation echoes a previous incident involving President Trump and the U.S. Olympic hockey teams. Trump reportedly joked during a congratulatory call with the men’s team that he would have to invite the women’s team as well, lest he “probably be impeached.” The men’s team did visit the White House and were subsequently guests at Trump’s State of the Union address.
The Thunder’s decision arrives as they navigate the final stretch of the regular season. Currently holding the top seed in the Western Conference despite facing some injury challenges, Oklahoma City has already clinched a playoff berth. The team is focused on maintaining its momentum as the NBA playoffs approach in less than a month. The timing of the visit, coinciding with a crucial part of the season, appears to have been the primary factor in the team’s decision.
Last year’s champions, the Boston Celtics, did build the trip to the White House in November 2025, when Joe Biden was still in office. This highlights the varied approaches teams have taken to the tradition, often influenced by the political climate and scheduling constraints.
The Thunder’s choice reflects a broader trend of athletes and teams carefully considering the implications of accepting invitations to the White House. While the honor remains a tradition for many, the potential for political statements or controversy has led some to decline or postpone such visits. For Oklahoma City, the focus remains firmly on the court as they pursue another championship.
The team will continue its road trip with the game against the Wizards on Saturday. Following that, they return to Oklahoma City to prepare for their playoff run. Fans can follow updates on the team’s progress and schedule through the official NBA website and the Thunder’s social media channels.
What’s Next: The Oklahoma City Thunder face the Washington Wizards on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET (11:00 PM UTC).
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