I've lived in Tulsa since 1969, but I'm originally from western OK. I've lived in both cities. I like Tulsa, but if my job allowed, I would be living in OKC or Norman.

You have to understand some things about many Tulsans. For many, many years, Tulsa was considered by many to be the 'elite' city in Oklahoma - if they thought we had one at all. They had great public schools through the 1950's and 1960's and Tulsans generally considered their city to be much better in every way than Oklahoma City. Over the past 13 years Oklahoma City has benefited from some leaders who had vision and were able to convince the voters to support their vision at the polls. During the same time frame, Tulsa has had little or no leadership or vision. Most Tulsans didn't even realize how OKC was forging ahead of them until the last 5 years or so. Too many had the attitude that Tulsa was 'prettier' than OKC, so they didn't need to do anything to improve their city - especially if it was going to cost them any money. I think the truth began to dawn when Tulsa could no longer attract big concerts etc. Now, they find themselves many years behind OKC, who is competing with Dallas and Kansas City for concerts, professional sports and Big XII events.

I think that most Tulsans are excited about the NBA coming to Oklahoma. They might be a little jealous, but if they are smart, they are getting ready to support whatever needs to be done to improve Tulsa.

My only reservation is how the NBA will impact the Sooners. Sooner fans, if there is a scheduling conflict, head to LNC or give your tickets to someone who will use them!