J.B. Mauney's Next Chapter in Bull Riding Has Been Determined

J.B. Mauney, the greatest bull rider of all time, is about to take on a position with a PBR expansion team to help shape the next generation of bull riders.

Since retiring from bull riding in September, the legendary J.B. Mauney has been working the bulls on his ranch. He was wondering what he was going to do. He was "ready to give it up" when the "man upstairs had different plans." 

It was then Brandon Bates called and asked him about an opportunity.  

As a result of that phone call and a visit to Mauney's ranch a couple of days later, the Oklahoma Wildcatters, the newest PBR team, has announced Mauney will be their head coach. He will be joined by Brandon Bates, who will serve as the general manager. The Wildcatters are owned by Midwest City's Talor Gooch, a professional LIV Golf champion and alumnus of Oklahoma State University.

Talor Gooch and J.B. Mauney :: Candace Evans/ Sunshine Social Co

Mauney, a Rookie of the Year, two-time PBR World Champion, and an athlete with 75 90-point bull rides, will be taking his world-renowned talent and using it to develop and coach a new PBR team. The Wildcatters, a 2024 PBR expansion team, will make their debut this July at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City.

When Sports Illustrated's Rodeo Daily asked Mauney about his newest endeavor, he repeatedly said this is "a way to give back."  He also told us he would "be able to help guys be better bull riders, still be around, and have a dog in the fight."

"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.”

We asked J.B. what his coaching philosophy would be; he said, "Toughness is what separates... a great bull rider from a good bull rider." He said, "Some guys need a shove in the right direction. It's mind over matter. If you don't mind, it don't matter." 

He plans to provide that mindset and make sure he is "picking apart what they need to work on better."

Mauney is being joined at the Wildcatters by Brandon Bates. Bates, the voice of the PBR for over two decades, will be the general manager of the new Oklahoma team. 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.

Brandon Bates, GM, Oklahoma Wildcatters :: Candace Evans/ Sunshine Social Co

"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.

The Oklahoma Wildcatters are poised to make their 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.