By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Aday Mara had more than one reason to celebrate after making his NBA debut for the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Spanish center contributed to a 116-104 win over the San Antonio Spurs with his parents watching from the stands.
Speaking to Aragón Deporte afterward, Mara said he was pleased to turn his first NBA minutes into a contribution to the team.
“I’m happy it’s official now. I felt good playing, and I felt like I helped the team, so I’m happy.”
Mara finished with seven points, two rebounds, one assist and one block in just 12 minutes. His teammates also made sure he left with a keepsake.
“It was emotional because my teammates gave me the game ball. I hadn’t thought about it. I’ll keep it as a really special memory.”
His debut included a block on Victor Wembanyama, who finished a difficult shooting night with just one make in 13 attempts. Mara explained that watching the French star’s game had helped him anticipate what he might face around the basket.
“On that first play, when I went for a reverse layup, I had thought about dunking, but I was looking at how everything was unfolding. I saw him there, and after watching him so many times, you more or less learn how he plays. I either had to jump earlier or dunk it, so I gave it a try.”
The occasion was particularly meaningful for his family, with his debut falling on his father’s birthday.
“Having my parents here, with today being my father’s birthday, was really special. Being able to celebrate with him and my mother, and having them come to watch the game, was wonderful.”
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