Spanish center Aday Mara enjoyed a memorable NBA debut with the Oklahoma City Thunder, helping his team secure a 116-104 victory over the San Antonio Spurs while his parents watched from the stands.
Mara made an immediate contribution in limited playing time, finishing with seven points, two rebounds, one assist and one block in just 12 minutes.
Speaking to Aragón Deporte after the game, the young center expressed satisfaction with his first official NBA appearance and his ability to contribute to the victory.
“I’m happy it’s official now. I felt good playing, and I felt like I helped the team, so I’m happy.”
The occasion became even more memorable when his Thunder teammates presented him with the game ball to commemorate his debut.
“It was emotional because my teammates gave me the game ball. I hadn’t thought about it. I’ll keep it as a really special memory.”
Mara also had an opportunity to compete against fellow European center Victor Wembanyama, who struggled offensively for San Antonio, making just one of his 13 field goal attempts.
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The Spanish big man recorded a block against Wembanyama and later discussed how his familiarity with the French star’s playing style influenced his decisions around the basket.
“On that first play, when I went for a reverse layup, I had thought about dunking, but I was looking at how everything was unfolding. I saw him there, and after watching him so many times, you more or less learn how he plays. I either had to jump earlier or dunk it, so I gave it a try.”
Beyond the basketball performance, Mara’s debut carried additional personal significance because his parents were in attendance, and the game took place on his father’s birthday.
“Having my parents here, with today being my father’s birthday, was really special. Being able to celebrate with him and my mother, and having them come to watch the game, was wonderful.”
