Z Thunderpreseason schedule in the books and rookie center Marr’s candidate potentially just four days before his NBA regular season debut, the big man’s former team in Spain is making noise in an attempt to block him from pitching in Oklahoma City, writes Donatos Urbonas of BasketNews.com.
As Urbonas points out, Basket Zaragoza, for which Mara played before transferring to UCLA in 2023, released an official statement saying the 21-year-old is under contract with the club until 2027 and said it had not received an international transfer request for him. Zaragoza maintains that Marr’s move to the NCAA did not void his contract in Spain, as FIBA does not require an international transfer for players entering American colleges.
A Thunder spokesperson downplayed the issue, making the following statement to several members of the media, including ESPN’s Tim McMahon (Link to Twitter):
“Aday last played three years of NCAA college basketball and therefore, as recommended by the NBA, does not require clearance from a Spanish team to play in the NBA.”
Generally, when a player requires FIBA clearance, it is before he officially signs a contract with his new team. Mara signed his rookie contract with the Thunder. in July after being drafted 12th overall in June and has since suited up for the club in both the Summer League and pre-season. The 7-foot-3 Spaniard has been impressive through five preseason games, averaging 13.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 2.4 blocks in 23.3 minutes per game while shooting 78.7% from the floor.
Here’s more on Thunder:
- The 2025/26 campaign was unforgettable Jalen Williamswho missed the first month of the season recovering from wrist surgery and then suffered multiple hamstring strains that limited him to 33 regular season games and five playoff appearances. But the former NBA forward, who is entering the first year of the 25-year-old salary cap expansion, is physically and mentally ready for the 26/27 season, writes Justin Martinez of Oklahoman. “I feel great” Williams said. “I’m happy to be on a really good team and to be healthy enough to go out and play again. And I think after not playing much last season, I have a lot more enthusiasm. … I’m excited to get back into it.”
- The Oklahoma City Blue, the Thunder’s G League affiliate, have acquired the rights to bring back three players, including a former NBA lottery pick Killian Hayesin a trade with the Cleveland Charge (Link to Twitter via Clemente Almanza of Thunder Wire). It’s unclear if Hayes intends to sign with the G League this fall to play for the Blue, but if he does, it wouldn’t be a surprise if he signs Exhibition 10 deal with Thunder first to ensure he gets a bonus on top of his NBAGL salary.
- In case you missed it, Oklahoma City gave up three players from his preseason roster on Friday.
