February 27, 2024
LEGENDARY J.B. MAUNEY TAKES THE REINS AS HEAD COACH OF PBR TEAMS NEWEST CONTENDER: THE OKLAHOMA WILDCATTERS
With the Iconic Brandon Bates at the Helm as General Manager, the Wildcatters Promise to Ignite the Global Bull Riding Stage
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – [Feb. 27, 2024] – The Oklahoma Wildcatters (Wildcatters), the newest PBR (Professional Bull Riders) team, is thrilled to announce J.B. Mauney as Head Coach and Brandon Bates as General Manager. Owned by Midwest City's own Talor Gooch, professional LIV Golf champion, the Wildcatters are set to bring a new level of excitement and competition to the PBR scene in Oklahoma.
J.B. Mauney, a name synonymous with resilience, skill and unparalleled success in the world of professional bull riding, has stepped into the coaching role for the first time. With a career highlighted by two PBR World Championships and a record-breaking number of rides, Mauney is ready to channel his extensive experience and indomitable spirit into leading the Wildcatters to success.
"I've faced some of the toughest bulls in the world and come out on top,” Mauney said. “Coaching the Oklahoma Wildcatters is a new challenge, but I'm ready to bring my experience and passion for bull riding to this team and help shape the next generation of champions.”
Joining Mauney in leadership is Bates, the iconic voice of PBR for more than two decades. As General Manager, Bates brings his deep knowledge of the sport and a visionary approach to team management. His expertise has guided fans through countless thrilling moments in bull riding history, and now, he will help lead the Wildcatters.
"Having been a part of the PBR family for so many years, I've seen firsthand what it takes to succeed in this sport. I'm honored to join the Wildcatters and work alongside J.B. Together, we're committed to building a team that embodies the spirit of Oklahoma and the heart of bull riding," Bates said.
Both Mauney and Bates will be instrumental in scouting and selecting the Wildcatters’ roster, which will begin to take shape when up to six riders will be selected in the 2024 Expansion Draft to be held at a date, time, and location to be announced. The team will be able to add to their roster by signing unrestricted free agents following the Expansion Draft. Finally, additional riders will fill out the roster when the 2024 New Rider Draft takes place with Wildcatters, along with the New York Mavericks also joining the league for the 2024 season, having the best odds of securing the number-one overall pick.
The Oklahoma Wildcatters are poised to make its mark on the PBR landscape, backed by a team of seasoned professionals and the unwavering support of Gooch. As the team gears up for its debut this July at the Paycom Center, fans can expect a thrilling display of talent, determination and the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines the sport of bull riding.
For more information about the Oklahoma Wildcatters and the upcoming season, please visit TheWildcatters.com.
The bull riding action for the 2024 PBR Camping World Team Series’ Wildcatter Days at Paycom Center begins at 7:45 p.m. CT on Friday, July 12, 6:45 p.m. CT on Saturday, July 13, and 1:45 p.m. CT on Sunday, July 14.
Tickets for the event go on sale Monday, March 4 at 10:00 a.m. CST and start at $20, taxes and fees not included. They can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com and PBR.com, at the Paycom Center Box Office, or by calling PBR customer service at 1-800-732-1727.
Three-day ticket packages are available, offering fans a 15% discount on select price levels.
Stay tuned to PBR.com for more information on the Oklahoma Wildcatters and the 2024 PBR Camping World Team Series season.
Social Media:
Facebook: OK Wildcatters
Twitter: OKWildcatters_
Instagram: OKWildCatters
YouTube: OKWildcatters
About J.B. Mauney:
J.B. Mauney, first-time coach, is one of the most decorated athletes in professional bull riding, with two PBR World Championships to his name. Known for his fearless style and ability to conquer the most challenging bulls, Mauney earned the nickname "Dragon Slayer." Despite facing numerous injuries throughout his career, he made history, setting records for elite tour event wins and 90-point rides.
About Brandon Bates:
Brandon Bates, the iconic voice of Professional Bull Riders (PBR) for two decades, left an indelible mark on the world of western sports with his commanding presence and unmistakable delivery. Now, Brandon embarks on a new journey as the General Manager of the Oklahoma Wildcatters, the PBR Team based in Oklahoma City. With his wealth of experience and passion for the sport, Brandon is poised to lead the Wildcatters to new heights of success in the arena. As both a respected voice of the sport and a visionary leader, Brandon continues to shape the landscape of professional bull riding, leaving an enduring legacy for future generations of fans and competitors alike.
About Oklahoma Wildcatters:
Oklahoma Wildcatters, owned by FJS Ventures and based at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, is led by Talor Gooch, a 10-season professional golfer and the 2023 LIV Golf Player of The Year, alongside Preston Lyon. Preston serves as the CEO/President of Lyon Sports Group, bringing several years of experience and a new vision of athlete representation. Gooch, born in Midwest City, Oklahoma, and a graduate of Oklahoma State, is actively involved in philanthropy through the Talor Gooch Foundation, uplifting and empowering children in Oklahoma. Lyon, beyond sports representation, engages in strategic investments, viewing his clients as more than just athletes. Lyon was born in Gastonia, NC, and now resides with his family in Charlotte, NC. Both passionate about PBR, they have chosen the Oklahoma Wildcatters as their inaugural business venture in their new partnership portfolio.
