INDIANAPOLIS The relationship between Indy and Oklahoma City traces back long before the 2025 NBA Finals.

I would expect, but certainly for cities like ours which maybe aren't always on the national and international stage," explained Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt.

Holt's sentiments reflect the journey Oklahoma City has taken over the past three decades in its quest for sustained growth and recognition.

The city's resurgence began in the 1990s when it lost a bid to Indianapolis for a United Airlines facility, prompting local leaders to seek inspiration from Indy.

Holt recounts how then-Mayor Ron Norick took a pivotal trip to Indianapolis, where he saw two major league teams and a vibrant downtown.

Our downtown was dead. We had one hotel in 1991 in downtown Oklahoma City, and we had n

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