NBA2d ago
Spanish Club Challenges Thunder Rookie Eligibility
Basket Zaragoza contests Aday Mara's availability for Oklahoma City this season over an active contract claim.
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Contract Dispute Emerges
A Spanish club is questioning whether Thunder first-round selection Aday Mara can suit up in the NBA this season. Basket Zaragoza maintains that the 21-year-old remains under contract through the 2026-27 campaign and has notified FIBA, the Spanish federation, the league and Oklahoma City of its position following his selection with the No. 12 pick.
Background and Transfer Path
Mara, a native of Zaragoza, departed the club in 2023 for UCLA. After two seasons there he moved to Michigan, where he started for the national championship team before entering the draft. The Thunder noted that the player completed three years of NCAA competition, meaning no international clearance is required according to league guidance.
Preseason Impact and Rotation Fit
During the preseason Mara posted averages of 13.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 2.4 blocks while converting 78.8 percent of his shots in 23.3 minutes per game. The 7-foot-3 center is expected to join a deep frontcourt rotation that features Isaiah Hartenstein and Chet Holmgren in the starting lineup with Jaylin Williams coming off the bench.
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