Two former UCLA Bruins, Aday Mara and Tyler Bilodeau, have officially stepped onto the NBA stage, marking the beginning of their professional careers in the Summer League. Their initial performances offer a promising outlook for their future contributions to their respective teams.
Former Bruins Mara and Bilodeau Kick Off NBA Careers
On a recent Saturday, July 5, 2026, two promising basketball talents, Aday Mara and Tyler Bilodeau, formerly of the UCLA Bruins, made their professional debuts in the NBA Summer League. Mara, joining the Oklahoma City Thunder, showcased his abilities in Utah, while Bilodeau, now with the Brooklyn Nets, competed in the California Classic.
Aday Mara, a towering 7'3" center, faced off against Cameron Boozer and the Memphis Grizzlies. Despite the Thunder's 111-74 loss, Mara's performance was notable. In 22 minutes of play, he recorded 10 points on 5-8 shooting, along with three rebounds, four assists, and two blocks. While he did commit three turnovers, his overall contribution highlighted his potential as a rim protector and a skilled passer, qualities that will be valuable alongside established centers like Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein.
Tyler Bilodeau participated in a more closely contested game, with the Brooklyn Nets narrowly losing 79-76 to the Sacramento Kings. The former UCLA forward played 24 minutes, scoring nine points on 4-6 shooting, including one successful three-pointer out of three attempts. Bilodeau also added a block and six rebounds, demonstrating his capacity as a solid rebounder and a competent shooter—skills crucial for his trajectory as a second-round pick on a two-way contract.
Both players shared a season at UCLA in 2024-2025. Mara departed after two seasons, moving to Michigan before entering the NBA, while Bilodeau joined the Bruins for two years after an initial two seasons at Oregon State. Their Summer League debuts provide an exciting preview of what these former Bruins could bring to the NBA.
The Summer League debuts of Aday Mara and Tyler Bilodeau offer an intriguing glimpse into the next generation of NBA talent. Mara, with his unique combination of size and passing ability, seems poised to carve out a significant role, particularly in the Thunder's already strong frontcourt. Bilodeau, on the other hand, faces the challenge of proving his value as a two-way player, with his rebounding and three-point shooting being key indicators of his potential impact. Both athletes, having honed their skills at UCLA, now embark on their professional journeys, reminding us of the continuous flow of talent from collegiate sports to the pinnacle of basketball. Their development will be worth watching as they navigate the rigorous demands of the NBA.
