Oklahoma City selected Michigan center Aday Mara with the 12th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. The 21-year-old Spanish big man, who helped Michigan capture a national championship as a 7-foot-3 anchor, announced at the Thunder’s introductory press conference that he will reach out to two former OKC players who share his heritage. “I haven’t talked to them, but I will soon,” Mara said. “I want to know a lot more about the city and about the people, everything... Yeah, I definitely need to talk with Abrines and maybe Ibaka, so yeah.”

Serge Ibaka spent seven seasons in Oklahoma City from 2009 through 2016, emerging as one of the league’s premier shot-blockers and a key piece of a Thunder roster that contended for a championship. His defensive presence and ability to stretch the floor made him a template for how an international big man can adapt to the NBA’s physical demands while contributing to a winning culture. For Mara, who hopes to develop a similar defensive identity, Ibaka’s path offers a concrete road map.

Alex Abrines joined the Thunder in 2016 and contributed three seasons (2016-19) as an outside-shooting role player. While his minutes were limited compared to a star, his experience navigating the transition from Europe to the NBA, learning the nuances of a perimeter role, and adjusting to life in Oklahoma City provides a complementary perspective to Ibaka’s interior focus. Together, the two veterans represent the breadth of experiences a Spanish player can encounter in the Thunder organization.

The Thunder’s willingness to let a rookie tap into its alumni network underscores an often-overlooked facet of player development: cultural and personal mentorship. International draftees frequently face a “Rookie Wall” as they adjust from college or overseas competition to the NBA’s speed and lifestyle. By speaking with Ibaka and Abrines, Mara can glean insights on everything from daily routines in OKC to handling media attention, helping him settle more quickly both on and off the court.

Looking ahead, Mara’s rookie season will be a test of how his collegiate success translates to the professional level. As a 7-foot-3 center with a defensive pedigree, he is poised to learn from the veterans while carving out his own role amid a Thunder roster that blends established stars with emerging talent. If he can absorb the lessons offered by his Spanish predecessors, the transition could accelerate, setting the stage for a productive career in Oklahoma City.