The Tulsa Shock history tells the story of the franchise’s relocation from Detroit and its early years in Oklahoma. Known for both challenges and breakthroughs, Tulsa Shock WNBA established a foundation for future success, developing talented players and gaining recognition in the league. Their journey reflects resilience and growth in professional women’s basketball.
Established
1998
City
Detroit – Tulsa – Dallas
League History
1998 – Present / Women’s National Basketball Association
Team History
2016 – Present / Dallas Wings
2010 – 2015 / Tulsa Shock
1998 – 2009 / Detroit Shock
Nickname
Shock – Sports fans, if you’ve ever wondered why the Tulsa Shock of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) has its name, this blog post is for you! The Tulsa Shock is named after a natural phenomenon in Oklahoma known as “the shock wave.” This powerful wave of energy is created by lightning and thunderstorms that can reach speeds up to 100 miles per hour. It is so strong that it can even knock down trees and buildings!
Tulsa Shock Origin
The team chose this nickname because they wanted something unique yet representative of their home state. They also wanted something with an element of power behind it—perfectly describing the strength and determination these athletes bring to each game they play!
It was vital for them to choose a name with local ties since many people in Oklahoma view basketball as one way they express their pride in being from such an amazing state. Choosing “Shock Wave” reinforces how passionate Oklahomans are about sports, particularly women's basketball here at home or on national stages like those within WNBA leagues around America today.
So next time you hear someone talking about the Tulsa Shock, you know why: when these ladies take the court together – just like during any stormy night - there will always be a powerful force ready for action!
Championship
WNBA Championships 0
Arena
2016 – Present / College Park Center
*Tulsa*
2010 – 2015 / BOK Center
*Detroit*
1998 – 2009 / The Palace of Auburn Hills
Owner
2016 – Present / Bill Cameron, Chris Christian and Mark Yancey
2010 – 2015 / Tulsa Pro Hoops LLC
1998–2009 / William Davidson
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
- 2015
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Tulsa Shock Team Creation
Tulsa had been mentioned as a possible future city for WNBA expansion, but efforts did not come together until the middle of 2009. An organizing committee with Tulsa businesspeople and politicians began the effort to attract an expansion team. The group was originally given a September 1 deadline. WNBA President Donna Orender extended that deadline to sometime in October. The investment group hired former University ... -
Tulsa Team acquires Sheryl Swoopes – a four-time WNBA champion and three-time MVP
In 2011: The team drafts Liz Cambage, the first Australian player in WNBA history, with the second overall pick. The team also acquires Sheryl Swoopes, a four-time WNBA champion and three-time MVP. The team improves slightly to a 9-25 record, but still misses the playoffs. Richardson resigns in July and is replaced by Teresa Edwards -
Tulsa Shock 2012 Season
In 2012: The team drafts Glory Johnson with the fourth overall pick and Riquna Williams with the 17th pick. The team also signs Temeka Johnson, a former WNBA champion and Rookie of the Year. The team struggles again with a 9-25 record and fails to make the playoffs for the third straight year. Edwards is fired at the end of ... -
Tulsa shock Falls Short of the Playoffs
In 2013: The team drafts Skylar Diggins, a two-time NCAA champion and national player of the year, with the third overall pick. The team also trades for Candice Wiggins, a former WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year. The team shows signs of improvement with an 11-23 record, but still falls short of the playoffs. Kloppenburg is retained as the head ... -
Tulsa Shock fire Gary Kloppenburg after 20-49 record
In 2014: The team drafts Odyssey Sims, a two-time NCAA finalist and All-American, with the second overall pick. The team also acquires Courtney Paris, a former NCAA rebounding leader and All-American. The team suffers several injuries to key players, including Cambage, Diggins, and Wiggins, and finishes with a 12-22 record, missing the playoffs for the fifth consecutive year. Kloppenburg is ... -
Shock on to Dallas
The 2015 Shock started off well, with the team starting 10–7, including a 6–1 record at the BOK Center. However, in June, point guard Skylar Diggins suffered a knee injury and missed the rest of the season. On July 20, 2015, majority owner Bill Cameron shocked not just fans in Tulsa, but the WNBA itself as he announced he will ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Tulsa Shock History
The Tulsa Shock history began in 2010 when the franchise relocated from Detroit and became the Tulsa Shock WNBA team. This marked a new chapter for the team, which had previously been known as the Detroit Shock. In their inaugural season in Tulsa, the team faced challenges but also showcased moments of promise.
Over the years, the Tulsa Shock WNBA team developed a competitive edge, attracting notable players and building a dedicated fan base. The team's commitment to excellence was evident as they consistently strived to improve their performance on the court.
In 2015, the Tulsa Shock WNBA team achieved a significant milestone by securing their first winning season in Tulsa with an 18–16 record. This accomplishment marked a turning point in the franchise's journey, highlighting their resilience and determination.
Despite facing challenges, the Tulsa Shock history is a testament to the team's growth and the support of their loyal fans. The franchise's legacy continues to inspire future generations of basketball enthusiasts.
Team Achievements
Since relocating to Tulsa, the Tulsa Shock WNBA team has achieved several milestones that define their journey. One of the most notable accomplishments came in 2015, when the franchise recorded its first winning season in Tulsa with an 18–16 record. This marked a turning point in Tulsa Shock history, demonstrating the team’s growth, resilience, and ability to compete at a high level in the league.
The Tulsa Shock WNBA also secured a playoff appearance in the same year, reflecting the talent and determination of their roster. Star players such as Skylar Diggins-Smith, Odyssey Sims, and Courtney Paris contributed significantly to the team’s success, leaving a lasting mark on Tulsa Shock history. These achievements helped establish the franchise as a competitive force and laid the foundation for future success in professional women’s basketball.
Sports Fan Products
Retired Number
*Blue is this team’s history