NEW YORK – The Oklahoma City Thunder selected Michigan Wolverines center Aday Mara with the No. 12 overall pick in the 2026 NBA draft on Tuesday, adding one of the nation’s premier rim protectors and a key contributor from former head coach Dusty May’s national championship team.
The 7′3″ center from Zaragoza, Spain, enters the NBA after helping lead Michigan to its first national title since 1989, while establishing himself as one of college basketball’s most impactful defensive players.
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Mara earned Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year honors, joining Wolverines legend Gary Grant, a two-time winner in 1987 and 1988, and anchored one of the nation’s top defenses during his breakout campaign.
Defensive force, versatile skill set
Known for his massive frame, elite shot-blocking instincts, and advanced feel for the game, Mara developed into a dominant two-way force after arriving in Ann Arbor following a successful two-year stint at UCLA, where he made just nine starts.
He became a full-time starter and defensive anchor for the Wolverines, leading the Big Ten and ranking sixth nationally with 80 total blocked shots at 2.6 per game, all in just 23.4 minutes per contest. Using his 7”6’ wingspan and impeccable timing, he became one of the country’s most feared interior defenders.
He also contributed 12.1 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game, showcasing a versatile skill set that extends well beyond traditional center responsibilities.
Mara capped the season with a Michigan single-season record 103 blocks and was selected to the All-Big Ten Third Team and All-Defensive Team.
He also earned a spot on the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year Late-Season Team.
Postseason standout
The Spanish big man saved some of his best basketball for the postseason.
Over nine tournament games, Mara averaged 15 points while shooting 76.2% from the free-throw line, raising his level as Michigan advanced through the bracket. He delivered a signature Final Four performance against Arizona, 26 points, nine rebounds, three assists, and two blocks, helping propel the Wolverines into the national championship game.
Michigan’s run made history: The Wolverines became the first program to sweep the Big Ten and NCAA tournaments in the same year since Michigan State did so in 2000.
Rare physical tools, elite efficiency
Scouts have long been intrigued by Mara’s rare physical tools and basketball instincts.
A two-time Basketball Without Borders All-Star, selected for the Europe 2022 and Global 2023 events, Mara was measured at 7”2’ with a 7”6’ wingspan and a 33-inch maximum vertical leap, combining elite size with coordination rarely seen in players his height.
His soft hands, touch around the basket, and ability to finish efficiently made him one of the most productive interior scorers in college basketball.
Mara ranked fourth nationally and led the Big Ten in field goal percentage at 66.8%, thriving as a lob target, post scorer, and offensive rebounder.
His quick feet, which he has credited partly to his background in beach volleyball, set him apart from most traditional centers and help him finish over rim protectors or get to his floater with either hand.
His improved strength has also made him more effective in battling in the paint.
Beyond scoring and defense, Mara’s passing ability has drawn praise from NBA evaluators. He consistently demonstrated strong court vision from the high post and showed an understanding of offensive concepts that kept Michigan’s offense flowing. His basketball IQ and willingness to make the right play, which he fouled out just once all season, have become defining characteristics throughout his development.
From Spain to national champion
Mara’s athletic foundation runs deep. His father, Javier Mara, played professional basketball in Spain, and his mother, Gely Gómez, competed for Spain’s national volleyball team. Growing up, Mara idolized Pau Gasol and gained valuable experience competing against professional players in his home country before representing Spain internationally.
That background prepared him well for the college game, and his transfer to Michigan proved transformative. Mara emerged as a defensive centerpiece for a Wolverines team that captured the program’s first national championship in 37 years, and set a school record along the way.
Next step
Now, Mara takes the next step by joining the Thunder.
With his combination of size, defensive impact, rebounding ability, and offensive efficiency, he projects as a player capable of contributing immediately while continuing to develop his game at the professional level.
Scouts envision a path similar to Ryan Kalkbrenner, who stepped in as an efficient scorer and consistent rim protector as a rookie in 2025-26.
Longer term, Mara’s ability to knock down a floater with either hand, reminiscent of Isaiah Hartenstein, combined with his elite defensive potential, makes him one of the most intriguing big men in this draft class.
And just as Zach Edey used the 2024 NBA combine to reveal an expanded offensive game that vaulted him up draft boards, Mara’s continued development could surprise those who have only seen him as a defensive specialist.
Oklahoma City believes Mara’s championship pedigree, defensive presence, and unique physical profile make him an important building block for the future as he begins his NBA career.