Aday Mara Selected 12th Overall by Oklahoma City Thunder in 2026 NBA Draft

Aday Mara’s rise to the top of world basketball marks a major milestone for Spanish sport. The Zaragoza-born center has been selected 12th overall in the 2026 NBA Draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder, joining a highly competitive franchise that won the championship just two seasons ago.

Mara’s success is the result of years of dedicated development, starting in the Casademont Zaragoza youth academy. Standing 2.21 meters tall, he is known for a tactical intelligence rarely seen in players of his size. This skill set helped him thrive in the American collegiate system, where he played for UCLA and later the University of Michigan, helping the latter secure a national title. These experiences allowed him to refine the defensive and playmaking abilities that caught the eye of NBA scouts.

Beyond his professional achievements, Mara is deeply connected to his roots in the Canary Islands. His mother, Angélica 'Geli' Gómez, was a legendary figure in Spanish volleyball, playing for Club Voleibol Tenerife and earning over 170 caps for the national team. Her influence on his development has been significant. Mara, whose name is of Guanche origin, honored his heritage during the draft ceremony by wearing a custom outfit featuring symbols from Aragon, the Iberian Peninsula, and the Canary Islands.

This achievement highlights the impact of strong sporting backgrounds on high-performance athletes. With a basketball legacy from his father, Francisco Javier Mara, and the elite discipline instilled by his mother, Aday Mara is one of the most promising young talents in international basketball. As he begins his career with the Thunder, his unique cultural background and ties to Tenerife will remain a core part of his identity in the NBA.