League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Match Previews

Mark Daigneault praises Aday Mara ahead of preseason opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 7, 2026, 1:41 AM

Last updated Oct 7, 2026

Mark Daigneault praises Aday Mara ahead of preseason opener

Summary

Oklahoma City Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault discussed rookie Aday Mara's growth before their preseason game against the New Orleans Pelicans. Daigneault highlighted Mara's defensive skills, contributing to his selection as the 12th overall pick in this year's draft. He noted significant progress since summer league, emphasizing Mara's conditioning and readiness for the upcoming games. The Thunder are set to host the Pelicans in Tulsa on Tuesday.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Mark Daigneault identifies Aday Mara as a top offseason performer.
•Mara was drafted 12th overall, noted for his defensive potential.
•Daigneault praised Mara's significant improvement since summer league.
•Thunder will play the Pelicans during their preseason opener in Tulsa.

Latest Updates

1:41 AMYahoo Sports — Thunder’s Mark Daigneault highlights Aday Mara as biggest offseason riser

What they're saying

"
Ahead of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s preseason opener against the New Orleans Pelicans, head coach Mark Daigneault discussed the growth he’s seen in rookie Aday Mara. Thunder rookie Mara is projected to shine defensively for Oklahoma City. It’s one of the biggest reasons he was selected 12th overall in this year’s draft. Before Mara’s Thunder […] The post Thunder’s Mark Daigneault highlights Aday Mara as biggest offseason riser appeared first on ClutchPoints.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

New Orleans Pelicans Oklahoma City Thunder NBA Basketball