Initiative is part of Emirates’ programme to give back to local communities across the US
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – 7 June 2025: Emirates, the Official Airline Partner of the NBA, has partnered with the basketball association to unveil a newly renovated space at Boys and Girls Club of Oklahoma County, as part of the NBA Cares Finals Legacy Projects. The initiative comes as part of the airline’s investment with the NBA and Emirates’ commitment to making a difference in cities across the US, by positively impacting and contributing to the well-being of youth in the nation’s communities.
The new “Wonder Room” was revealed during a ribbon cutting ceremony inaugurated by officials from Emirates, the NBA and Oklahoma City Thunder players. Youth from Boys and Girls Club of Oklahoma County, who stand to benefit from the initiative, were also present at the official reveal of the new recreational space. Leading the formalities at the unveiling event was Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner; Mark Tatum, NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer; Kathy Behrens, NBA President Social Responsibility & Player Programs; and Matthew Jones, Emirates’ VP-USA.
Boys and Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County provide clubs where kids can enjoy extra-curricular activities after school and grow beyond the classroom. Since opening their doors 30 years ago, Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County have grown from one to 16 clubs serving over 1,200 club members each day and over 17,000 youth every year.
The refurbishment project transformed a third-grade classroom into a Wonder Room, complete with tech equipment, STEM Zone, reading nook and a lounge space for teen members. The room also underwent major aesthetic enhancements including fresh paint, new graphics and flooring to result in a new and inspiring space for kids to enjoy.
Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, a commemorative plaque highlighting the support of the NBA and Emirates in the refurbishment project was placed at the Wonder Room. To celebrate the opening of the new community room, local youth participated in a Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA youth basketball clinic.
Emirates is the Official Global Airline Partner of the NBA, Title Partner of the Emirates NBA Cup, and presenting partner of this year’s NBA Cares Finals Legacy Projects. From supporting youth basketball clinics to creating memorable moments at NBA events, the partnership reflects Emirates’ commitment to bringing people together through sports.
The airline began its US operations with services to New York JFK in 2004, and today operates to 12 US cities. The airline also strives to make an impact on communities around the world through various means, via its partnerships, directly or through the Emirates Airline Foundation.
For more information, visitemirates.com.