What happened: Aday Mara was taken 12th overall, making him the highest-drafted player from Spain since Ricky Rubio went fifth in 2009. The towering center spoke after his selection about representing the next wave of Spanish basketball talent.

Why it matters: Spain has a deep pipeline of NBA talent, but it had been more than a decade since a Spanish prospect heard his name called this early. Mara's lottery selection signals renewed faith in his upside as a long-term anchor in the paint.

What to watch: Watch how Mara's development is managed as he transitions to the NBA ahead of the 2026-27 season.