​The Oklahoma City Thunder unveiled their 2026 draft class Friday afternoon at The Hamm Institute in downtown OKC, with General Manager Sam Presti hosting a Q&A alongside rookies Aday Mara, Bennett Stirtz, and Otega Oweh. The press conference featured candid answers from the trio and Presti, highlighting the group’s diverse backgrounds and shared competitive drive.
Presti emphasized the players’ competitiveness, basketball IQ, work ethic, and dedication, noting that each athlete has navigated unique paths to arrive at this moment—from Zaragoza, Spain, to a Division II college, to households known for pushing their members to excel. He said the team is excited to explore the players’ potential together and welcomed them to the organization.
Mara spoke about his admiration for the Thunder’s chemistry and the importance of strong relationships within a championship-winning environment. Having observed the team from afar, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to join a culture he believes will help him win.
Stirtz stressed his eagerness to build relationships with his teammates and contribute to a winning culture. He acknowledged that mistakes will happen as they learn and compete at the highest level, and he emphasized the need to learn from those who have already achieved Finals success.
Oweh noted his familiarity with Oklahoma City and the strong basketball culture in the area, describing it as a full-circle moment. He reflected on how living in environments that breathe basketball has prepared him for this next step and expressed enthusiasm for joining a city known for its deep basketball passion.
Overall, the press conference underscored the Thunder’s optimism about the 2026 draft class and the players’ readiness to contribute to a winning culture in OKC.