Spanish club Zaragoza says Aday Mara is still under contract as the Thunder rookie nears his NBA debut

Oklahoma City's newest big man has a contract fight waiting overseas.

Basket Zaragoza, the Spanish club where Aday Mara began his pro career, said Friday that the Thunder rookie is still under contract with the club for the 2026-27 season. The club said it has not received a formal request for his international transfer and would oppose one if it comes. It said it has shared that position with the Thunder, the NBA, FIBA and the Spanish Basketball Federation.

The Thunder push back

Oklahoma City does not appear worried. A team spokesperson said Mara last played three years of college basketball so no clearance from the Spanish club is required for him to play in the NBA. The team said that was the guidance it got from the league.

FIBA does not require an international transfer for players who go to U.S. colleges but it does for moves to other pro leagues. Zaragoza argues that Mara leaving for college in 2023 did not end his deal. A newspaper in Spain reported the club is seeking a financial settlement.

A big preseason

Mara played for his hometown club from 2021 to 2023 before two seasons at UCLA and one at Michigan where he helped the Wolverines win the national title. The Thunder drafted the 7-foot-3 center 12th overall in June.

He averaged 13.4 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.4 blocks in five preseason games while making nearly 79 percent of his shots. Oklahoma City opens its season against the San Antonio Spurs on Oct. 20.