Bye Aday: Men’s basketball centerpiece Mara reportedly not returning to program
Former UCLA men’s basketball sophomore center Aday Mara looks toward the paint. Bruin Report Online reported Monday evening that Mara will not be returning to Westwood for the 2025-2026 season. (Aidan Sun/Assistant Photo editor)
By Ira Gorawara
March 31, 2025 10:13 p.m.
UCLA men’s basketball center Aday Mara – otherwise known as Pauley Pavilion’s sweetheart – will not return to the squad for the 2025-2026 season.
The Spanish sophomore phenom, who tantalized the Bruin faithful with a blend of shot blocking, passing wizardry and interior scoring, is planning to continue his career away from Westwood.
Bruin Report Online first reported the news Monday evening, which was later confirmed by two sources familiar with the situation, according to the Los Angeles Times. The individuals were not authorized to speak publicly, as Mara’s plans have yet to be formally announced.
Optimism surrounded Mara’s return prior to spring break, according to Bruin Report Online. But following a trip back to Spain, negotiations reportedly fell apart and Mara opted to move on just a day into UCLA’s spring quarter.
The 7-foot-3 big man had a breakout performance Jan. 21 against Wisconsin, dropping 22 points on 7-for-7 shooting and grabbing five rebounds. After sustaining that offensive rhythm over the next three games, Mara’s minutes swelled off the bench under coach Mick Cronin, and he ultimately carved out an indispensable role as a frequent difference-maker for the Bruins.
Early in the season, Cronin often attributed Mara’s limited minutes to shaky conditioning and recurring illnesses. But once the towering sophomore found his stride, it became nearly impossible for Cronin to glue the biggest man on his roster to the bench.
Mara averaged 6.4 points, four rebounds and 1.6 blocks in just over 13 minutes a game – but anyone who watched UCLA down the stretch knows those numbers don’t tell the full story. When Mara was on the court, he changed the geometry of the game – swatting shots, threading passes and finishing with finesse.
Mara’s departure is a substantial hit to Cronin and the Bruins’ frontcourt, which lost now-Syracuse forward William Kyle III to the transfer portal exactly a week ago. UCLA will need to retool fast in the wake of Kyle and Mara’s departure, needing at least one – or even two – bigs out of the portal.
