Get to Know Aday Mara
Aday Mara sits down with Lauren Green from NBA TV to discuss the NBA Draft.
Overview
After two years at UCLA, Aday Mara transferred to Michigan and blossomed into the Big Ten’s Defensive Player of the Year and a third-team All-Big Ten selection. He made only nine starts for the Bruins but became a full-time starter and defensive anchor at Michigan, averaging 12.1 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 2.6 blocks with 67/30/56 shooting splits. In nine total tournament games, Mara was better offensively, averaging 15.0 points while shooting 76.2 percent from the line on 2.3 attempts per game. The big man was an integral part of the Wolverines winning the Big Ten and NCAA Tournaments, which hadn’t happened in the same year since Michigan State won both in 2000.
Analysis
Mara’s quick feet separate him from most traditional centers and make him likely the top true big man in the 2026 class. He dominated the paint against lesser competition, overpowering smaller opponents and showing a nice touch around the rim when facing strong rim protectors. While Mara didn’t attempt many threes in college, it wouldn’t be surprising if he added to his game at the next level, and his form suggests he’ll be a better free-throw shooter as his career progresses. The defensive end is where Mara will earn his paycheck. He was an elite rim protector in college, showing advanced patience and instincts while fouling out only once.
Projection
Zach Edey famously showcased an adequate three-point shot at the 2024 NBA combine after hardly ever leaving the paint in college, which vaulted him up draft boards. Mara could do something similar, but his ability to knock down a floater with either hand, a la Isaiah Hartenstein, could be more than enough offense to interest NBA teams, especially when coupled with his elite defensive potential. Mara should have a clear path to being an efficient scorer and consistent rim protector as a rookie, like Ryan Kalkbrenner was in 2025-26.
Career Highlights
- 2025-26 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year.
- 2025-26 All-Big Ten Third Team and All-Defensive Team pick.
- 2025-26 Naismith Defensive Player of the Year Late-Season Team choice.
- Helped Michigan win the 2026 NCAA championship.
- Two-time Basketball Without Borders All-Star (Europe 2022, Global 2023).
- Played his first two seasons at UCLA.
Junior (2025-26)
- Led the Big Ten and ranked sixth nationally in blocks (2.6 bpg) in just 23.4 minutes.
- Ranked fourth nationally and led the Big Ten in field goal percentage (66.8).
- Named to the NCAA All-Tournament Team.
- Posted 18 points, 13 rebounds, six assists and five blocks against Wake Forest (Nov. 11).
Strengths
- Skilled big man with a high basketball IQ.
- Elite rim protector with exceptional timing and instincts.
- Advanced feel as a passer out of the post.
- Efficient finisher with soft hands and touch around the rim.
Personal
- Lists Pau Gasol as a childhood idol.
- Father, Javier Mara, played pro basketball in Spain.
- Mother, Gely Gómez, competed in volleyball for Spain’s national team.
- Cites beach volleyball as influential in developing his footwork and balance.
Go Figure
Mara set a Michigan single-season record with 103 blocks in 2025-26.
Quotable
“He’s got an awesome attitude about him and a great spirit about him. Typically, guys like that who enjoy being teammates and working on their game, they gradually get better. He has done that the last 10 years of his life.”
— Michigan head coach Dusty May
Aday Mara 2026 Draft Media Availability
Aday Mara addresses the media after being selected No. 12 overall in the 2026 NBA Draft.
— Profile by RotoWire.com with additional info from the official NBA Draft Media Guide