The Spanish center measured in at 7 feet 2.25 inches (2.21 meters) barefoot, with a wingspan of 7 feet 6 inches (2.29 meters) and a standing reach of an incredible 9 feet 9 inches (2.97 meters). That standing reach is the second-highest in the history of the NBA Draft Combine, trailing only Tacko Fall’s record.
Aday Mara dunks during a game for the University of Michigan.
The Draft Combine in Chicago is the stage where prospects showcase their skills for scouts and franchise executives. They also undergo a series of physical tests and measurements. Among the players who drew the most attention was Aday Mara, whose remarkable dimensions turned heads.
The 20-year-old, who helped Michigan win the NCAA championship, posted a barefoot height of 2.21 meters. His wingspan measured 2.29 meters. But the most jaw-dropping figure was his standing reach: 2.97 meters. That explains why a photo went viral showing Mara snipping the net after a Wolverines victory—without needing to jump or stand on anything, given that the rim sits at 3.05 meters.
Aday Mara cuts down the net after Michigan’s NCAA title win.
According to ESPN draft expert Jonathan Givony, Mara’s standing reach ties Mark Williams (currently with the Suns) for second place all-time at the Draft Combine. Only Tacko Fall, the 7-foot-6 giant who played 37 NBA games for the Celtics and Cavaliers, has a higher mark.
**Weight Gain Shows Physical Transformation**
Mara stepped on the scale at 117 kilograms, a clear sign he has dedicated serious effort to his physique since arriving at UCLA three years ago with a much leaner frame.
“I remember in Zaragoza I weighed around 98-100 kilos. It’s been a mix of losing fat and gaining muscle,” the center said in an interview, reflecting on his transformation.
The Spanish big man has seen his draft stock soar after a strong NCAA Final Four run that helped Michigan claim the title. Projections had him hovering around the middle of the first round, but recent weeks have pushed him into the Top 10 conversation. Now that his eye-popping measurements are public knowledge, it would be surprising if he slips out of that range.