OKLAHOMA CITY — As the lights dimmed in Chesapeake Energy Arena, all eyes were glued to midcourt.
Before the national anthem or any player introductions, a famous ritual had to take place ahead of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s Game 2 playoff matchup versus the Utah Jazz on April 18.
The Rev. James L. Dunbar, senior pastor of Greater Cleaves Memorial Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, delivered a pregame invocation.
“Our God, we ask that you would protect the players, the coaches, the officials, these great fans and the employees,” he prayed. “Thank you for everything that you provide.