Three weeks ago, patrons of O'Connell's weren't sure whether Saturday would be the last home game at the Norman sports bar's current location.
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Now, they know.
The pub isn't going anywhere — at least through next October.
Earlier this fall, the University of Oklahoma completed a purchase of the property southeast of Memorial Stadium. The land currently houses a Subway, a convenience store and a Thai restaurant.
And O'Connell's, arguably the oldest and most tradition-rich bar in Norman.
"What happens after (October) or maybe before that, there's no telling," said manager Jeff Stewart. "We really haven't gotten into any of those discussions yet, so it's just all rumor and hearsay."
One of the rumors had O'Connell's moving to Campus Corner next year. While Stewart wouldn't necessarily mind the proposition, he said at this point, there's no way of knowing for sure.
"Until we hear from the university, there's just no telling," said Stewart. "I've got a friend who's got a house that he rents. The university bought the house and said, ‘We'll give you 30 days notice to leave.' That was two-and-a-half years ago."
Stewart said O'Connell's ownership has tried to contact Oklahoma in hopes of "getting on the same page" regarding the pub's future location. But the two groups haven't established any sort of meeting.
That means patrons might have to wait months before learning the fate of their favorite game day stop.
"We've got numerous offers, particularly on Lindsey Ave. and on the east side of town," said Stewart. "I don't know. We'll just have to weigh them all out and see. There are several places available on Campus Corner right now. Whether they're available if and when we have to move, I don't know.
"That's why I've been wanting to get into discussions with OU and find out what exactly is their timeline, and do we need to take some serious looks at possible moves."
Saturday won't be the last home game O'Connell's hosts at its current location — but it just might be the last season-closer.
Only time will tell.
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