Oklahoma City Thunder rookie Aday Mara has delivered encouraging performances during the 2026 NBA preseason, although an ongoing contract dispute with his former Spanish club could complicate the beginning of his professional career.
The 7-foot-3 center averaged 13.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 2.2 blocks per game during preseason action.
Oklahoma City selected Mara with the 12th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft following his college career at UCLA and Michigan.
The Spanish big man helped Michigan capture the NCAA national championship last season before entering the draft.
However, his move to the NBA has brought renewed attention to a contractual disagreement dating back to 2023.
Mara left Casademont Zaragoza at age 18 to pursue his basketball career in the United States, despite the Spanish club claiming that his contract remained valid through 2027.
Because college basketball operates outside FIBA’s regulatory system, Mara did not need an international Letter of Clearance to compete in the NCAA.
His situation could be different in the NBA, with Zaragoza maintaining that formal clearance is required before he can participate in regular-season games.
The dispute did not affect Mara’s selection in the NBA Draft or his preseason appearances.
While reports indicate that the disagreement may not delay his NBA debut, the issue remains unresolved.
Oklahoma City will begin its 2026-27 regular season on Tuesday against the San Antonio Spurs, with Mara hoping to build on his promising preseason performances.
