College Basketball
Aday Mara Transfer Portal: Michigan Leads the Race for UCLA Center But Could Indiana Be His Next Team?
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Get to know David Evans betterPublished10 Apr 2025
Aday Mara is one of the best big men available in the college basketball transfer portal. The 7-foot-3 center from Spain has opted to play for a new team after beginning his career with the UCLA Bruins. There are three Big Ten teams in pursuit of Mara but one team has a clear advantage in the race. Find out which team team Mara might play for next.
Where Will Aday Mara Transfer?
Aday Mara remains uncommitted in the transfer portal. Michigan leads the race, but Indiana and Wisconsin are still actively in pursuit. Where is the best landing spot for the former UCLA big man?
Michigan Leads the Race for Aday Mara
Michigan is on commitment watch for Aday Mara, who would be a perfect fit to replace Vlad Goldin. https://t.co/Qst8aebg6k
— GBM Wolverine (@GBM_Wolverine) April 9, 2025
Michigan is the frontrunner. Head coach Dusty May has already landed Yaxel Lendeborg and is building around defense and spacing. Mara would step into a clear role as a rim protector and post facilitator. Michigan can offer structure, minutes, and a proven development plan. The Wolverines have also built one of the top recruiting classes for next season.
The Wolverines have been in the lead since Mara hit the transfer portal. Even though they are believed to be his preferred landing spot, Indiana and Wisconsin are not quite of the race.
Why Indiana is Still in the Race for Aday Mara
Indiana is still in the mix under new head coach Darian DeVries. The roster is thin up front, and that could open a direct path for Mara to play heavy minutes right away.
Why Indiana makes sense for Mara:
- Immediate need at center—he fills a critical hole.
- Opportunity to be a focal point rather than a role player.
- DeVries wants high-IQ players who can pass and anchor the defense.
Challenges for Indiana:
- New coaching staff, no continuity or clear system yet.
- Roster rebuild still in progress.
- Competing with more stable programs like Michigan.
Wisconsin Still an Option?
Wisconsin are said to be still in contact with Mara. Greg Gard runs a system that favors bigs who make decisions from the post. Mara’s passing and touch would fit, though the Badgers already have some frontcourt depth. The opportunity is real, but the ceiling isn’t as high as Michigan’s.
Mara hasn’t scheduled visits or named finalists. Michigan remains the likely destination, but Indiana is still active and has a compelling pitch. Until there’s a commitment, they’re in the race.
