Spanish club threatens to block Thunder rookie's NBA move
BasketNews.com • • sports
Key Points:
- Basket Zaragoza asserts that Aday Mara remains under contract with the Spanish club for the 2026-27 season and has not authorized his transfer to the Oklahoma City Thunder, warning it will oppose any transfer request.
- The club emphasizes that Mara's move to college basketball in 2023 did not terminate his contract, citing FIBA rules that do not require an international transfer for NCAA players, and plans to take legal action to protect its rights.
- Mara was selected 12th overall by the Thunder in the 2026 NBA Draft and has impressed during the preseason, averaging 13.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks over five games.
- Developed through Zaragoza’s youth system, Mara played professionally in Spain before two college seasons at UCLA and Michigan, where he earned Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year honors and helped win the 2026 NCAA championship.
- Mara’s rookie contract with Oklahoma City is valued at approximately $5.8 million for the first season, with potential team options extending through 2029-30.
