Nick Collison Immortalized: Oklahoma City Thunder to Begin Work on Monument Honoring Franchise Legend
OKLAHOMA CITY — In a move that speaks volumes about loyalty, legacy, and the values that transcend the stat sheet, the Oklahoma City Thunder have announced plans to build a permanent monument honoring Nick Collison, one of the most revered figures in the franchise’s history.
Often dubbed “Mr. Thunder,” Collison wasn’t just a player — he was a culture-setter. A symbol of humility and hustle. The monument, slated to rise just outside the Paycom Center, will serve as a lasting tribute to a man whose contributions to the franchise went far beyond the hardwood.
“Nick Collison’s legacy is about more than basketball,” said Thunder General Manager Sam Presti in the team’s official statement. “It’s about humility, consistency, and a deep love for this city and this team. He gave everything he had, every day. This monument will ensure that future generations know what it truly means to be a Thunder.”
A Career Rooted in Loyalty and Heart
Collison played all 14 seasons of his NBA career with one franchise — a rarity in the modern era of free agency and superteams. From the Seattle SuperSonics to their relocation and rebranding as the Oklahoma City Thunder, he remained a constant presence. Though his name rarely appeared in All-Star conversations, his presence in the locker room was immeasurable. He was a calming force, a mentor, and an embodiment of the team’s unselfish, team-first identity.
Nick Collison averaged modest numbers: 5.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game over his career. But his impact was never about stats. It was about hard screens that freed up teammates. Charges taken in key moments. Leadership behind the scenes. And a tireless work ethic that set a standard for every player who entered the Thunder facility.
A Monument to Blue-Collar Greatness
The monument is expected to feature a life-size statue of Collison in action — likely diving for a loose ball, one of the most fitting images to capture his playing style. Alongside the sculpture will be inscriptions chronicling his career milestones, quotes from teammates, and personal messages from fans.
Construction is scheduled to begin later this year, and the unveiling is expected to be a major community event — not just for Thunder fans, but for basketball purists who value grit over glamor.
“Nick Collison never chased stardom,” read one viral tweet in response to the news. “He chased impact. And now he’s being honored the way true legends should be.”
Jersey Retirement and Beyond
This is not the first time the Thunder have honored Collison. In 2019, he became the first player in team history to have his jersey retired. Now, with a statue joining that honor, the franchise is cementing his legacy — quite literally — in bronze.
As former teammate Russell Westbrook once said: “Nick is the definition of a true professional. He did everything the right way.”
Why Collison’s Legacy Still Matters Today
In today’s NBA, where superstars frequently move teams and highlight reels dominate social media, Nick Collison’s story offers a refreshing counterpoint. His tribute is a message to young players that loyalty, consistency, and character still matter.
As the Thunder continue developing their next generation of talent — with stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren — the monument will stand as a powerful reminder of where the team’s foundation was laid.
“We’re building toward the future,” said Thunder President Clay Bennett, “but we’re doing it on the shoulders of the past. And no shoulders carried more weight for us than Nick Collison’s.”
