Aday Mara, the promising 7-foot-3 rookie, faces a significant hurdle as Basket Zaragoza publicly opposes his move to the Oklahoma City Thunder. After being selected with the 12th pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, Mara's former club asserts that he remains under contract until the 2026-27 season.

In an official statement released on Friday, Zaragoza highlighted that it has yet to receive a formal request for Mara's international transfer. The club has made it clear that it will resist any attempts to allow him to suit up for the Thunder. They have communicated their stance to various parties, including the NBA, FIBA, and the Spanish Basketball Federation.

Key points from Zaragoza's position include:

• FIBA does not require an international transfer for NCAA players but does for professional leagues.
• The club claims to hold Mara's playing rights and is seeking a financial settlement before permitting his clearance.
• The situation has escalated to litigation, leaving it without a legal resolution.

In response, the Thunder stated that no clearance from Zaragoza is necessary for Mara to participate in the NBA. A spokesperson emphasized that, having played three years of NCAA basketball, Mara is eligible to play without the club's approval.

Mara, who previously played for UCLA and Michigan, has been making waves in the preseason. In his third game against the Hawks, he recorded impressive stats: 17 points, 10 rebounds, six assists, and four blocks. At just 21 years old, he is anticipated to play a vital role off the bench for the Thunder this season.