Aday Mara, the Spanish center picked by the Oklahoma City Thunder, could face delays in his NBA debut due to a contract dispute with his former club, Casademont Zaragoza. The Spanish team claims they still hold his playing rights and are pushing for a financial settlement before allowing him to play. They’ve warned the NBA, FIBA, and Spanish basketball authorities that Mara needs a formal letter of clearance to be eligible for the 2026–27 season.
The conflict goes back to 2023, when Mara, then 18, left Zaragoza to pursue college basketball in the US. He played for UCLA and Michigan, winning a national title with the Wolverines. Because the NCAA operates outside FIBA rules, no clearance was needed during his college years. But now, Zaragoza argues his contract ran until 2027 and wants to block any international transfer until they’re paid.
Despite this, the Thunder believe Mara is clear to play. A team spokesperson said that since he spent three years in college basketball, no clearance from the Spanish club is required for NBA games. Mara impressed in the preseason, averaging 13.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game. Oklahoma City is scheduled to open the season against the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday.
