Thunder Rookie Aday Mara's NBA Debut in Jeopardy After Contract Dispute
Spanish club Basket Zaragoza have challenged Aday Mara's move to OKC, raising questions about the rookie's NBA debut.
Oklahoma City Thunder have maintained that rookie center Aday Mara of Spain is eligible to play for the team despite his former Spanish club Casademont Zaragoza claiming that he remains obligated under the contract he signed with them. Liga ACB club Casademont Zaragoza holds Mara's playing rights until 2027 and plans to block his ability to play for the Thunder until a financial settlement regarding his departure is reached.
Casademont Zaragoza's statement said that while the club wishes Mara well and remains committed to developing players, it must protect its rights and defend its interests. The Thunder argue that since Mara played three years of NCAA college basketball, NBA clearance is not required for him to play in the league. Mara began his career with Zaragoza at age 16 and played for both UCLA and Michigan before being drafted by the Thunder with the 12th pick in June’s 2026 NBA Draft.
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