LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JULY 07: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs dribbles the ball during the second quarter against the Charlotte Hornets at the Thomas & Mack Center on July 07, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
Aday Mara is headed to the Oklahoma City Thunder with the 12th overall pick, making him one of the most intriguing storylines of this year’s NBA Draft.
The 7-foot-3 center out of Michigan is considered one of the most fascinating prospects available. Mara can catch any pass, has great hands and elite potential, all of which he showed during his college career. While his development has not always been smooth, NBA scouts—and Thunder general manager Sam Presti—took a chance on Mara, praising his ability to fit in Oklahoma City’s system.
The pick is also a great fit for the Thunder, who faced Victor Wembanyama in the Western Conference finals this year and needed another big man to help Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein.
Coming off a championship in 2025, Oklahoma City has built one of the league’s deepest young rosters. The team already features two-time MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams and more. The Thunder have earned a strong reputation for acquiring young talent and developing them into great players.
If Mara reaches his potential, Oklahoma City will have another great big man with significant upside. His height will be a major asset, and many around the league are now concerned about Mara going to OKC.
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