U.S. Navy Sailor Bridges Service and Community as OKC Thunder Performer

U.S. Navy story by Chief Warrant Officer 3 Ashley M. Moran, Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron THREE

U.S. Navy Yeoman 2nd Class Dehjon Okafor stands in front of the E-6B Mercury on Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, 5 June 2025. Okafor was selected to join the NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder O’City Crew Dance Team where he performs at home games to entertain the crowd of basketball fans. (U.S. Navy photo by Operations Specialist 2nd Class Emily Lancaster)

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. – When Yeoman 2nd Class Dehjon Okafor received his orders transferring him to Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron (VQ) 3 at Tinker Air Force Base, he brought more than just his military discipline and administrative expertise—he brought a passion for dance and gymnastics that would soon find a new stage.

Originally from London, England, Okafor currently serves as an Administrative Clerk, where he is responsible for a wide range of essential administrative duties. Though his role is primarily desk-based, Okafor is committed to maintaining peak physical readiness. He is a trained gymnast and dancer, and after arriving in Oklahoma, he wasted no time before enrolling in a local dance class—allowing him to stay fit and continue pushing his physical limits.

“After sitting at a desk all day, I enjoy the opportunity to be physically active,” he shared.

It didn’t take long for his talent to shine. Within weeks of joining the class, Okafor was encouraged by his instructor to audition for the Oklahoma City Thunder’s O’City Crew Dance Team—a high-energy, hip-hop group known for energizing the crowd at NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder games and engaging with the community.

This wasn’t Okafor’s first time under the spotlight. During his previous assignment aboard the USS Constitution in Boston, Massachusetts, he was a member of the official Boston Celtics dance team. That experience made the audition stakes even higher.

“I definitely felt the pressure to make the team,” Okafor said. “I kept refreshing the team’s social media page the day results were supposed to be released, waiting to see if I made the team.”

He did. And he couldn't have been happier.

“Being part of the team is about more than just dancing. It’s a way to give back to the community and inspire local youth to chase their dreams,” he said. “I love showing kids that you can serve your country and pursue your passion at the same time.”

In addition to community service, being on the O’City Crew keeps Okafor in peak physical shape. The commitment includes four three-hour practice sessions each week and performances at every home game—demanding, but fulfilling.

Though his nights are packed with rehearsals and performances, Okafor says the experience is well worth it.

“It’s exhausting—but in the best way,” he said with a smile. “Dance is my outlet, and being able to do it while representing both the Navy and the Thunder is an incredible honor.  Oklahoma City has the most energized fans.  They make every night worth it.”

Okafor’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance, showing that service to one’s country doesn’t mean leaving your dreams behind.