Thunder adds Aday Mara to frontcourt to compete with Wembanyama
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 24, 2026, 1:54 AM
Last updated Jun 24, 2026
The Oklahoma City Thunder selected Aday Mara, a 7-foot-3 center from the Michigan Wolverines, with the 12th overall pick in the 2026 NBA draft on June 24. This decision comes after Wembanyama's impact led to the Thunder's elimination in the Western Conference Finals. Mara's size and skills, which include passing ability and rim protection, are seen as essential for countering players like Wembanyama. The Thunder aim to develop Mara's versatility to enhance their frontcourt strength moving forward.
- •Thunder drafted Aday Mara 12th overall in the 2026 NBA draft.
- •Mara stands 7-foot-3 with a 7-foot-6 wingspan.
- •Thunder aim to improve frontcourt size after losing to Wembanyama.
- •Mara brings skills beyond shot-blocking, including passing ability.
- •Team hopes Mara can limit Wembanyama's impact in future matchups.
- 1:54 AMYahoo Sports — Thunder's latest chess move could be all about Victor Wembanyama
"Thunder adds size to frontcourt to address NBA's Victor Wembanyama problem.
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