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League: NBASport: BasketballCountry: United StatesCategory: Scores & Results

Thunder draft center Aday Mara with No. 12 pick to bolster roster

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 24, 2026, 1:54 AM

Last updated Jun 24, 2026

Thunder draft center Aday Mara with No. 12 pick to bolster roster
Summary

The Oklahoma City Thunder selected 7-foot-3 Aday Mara from Michigan with the 12th pick in the NBA Draft on June 24, 2026. This move positions the Thunder to better compete against San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama. Mara is noted for his shot-blocking abilities, passing, and potential as a starting center. This selection highlights the Thunder's commitment to accumulating talent through the draft and maintaining flexibility in their roster decisions. The team may now decline Isaiah Hartenstein's option to pursue a lower-cost re-signing if desired.

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Market Watch
  • •Thunder drafted Aday Mara at No. 12 overall in the 2026 NBA Draft.
  • •Mara is regarded as the best center available.
  • •Thunder can now better compete against Spurs' Victor Wembanyama.
  • •The team has options regarding Isaiah Hartenstein's contract.
  • •This draft strategy emphasizes talent acquisition without trading up.
Latest Updates
  • 1:54 AMYahoo Sports — NBA Draft: Thunder don't need to trade up to address Victor Wembanyama problem
What they're saying
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The 7-foot-3 Mara is regarded as the best center in the draft.

Related Teams & Leagues
Oklahoma City ThunderSan Antonio SpursNBABasketball

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