Dusty May on Aday Mara after reaching the NCAA final: "He could be a Top 10 draft pick"

Spanish player Aday Mara expressed pride in the journey after leading the Michigan Wolverines to the final of the NCAA, on a night where he also received strong praise from his coach, Dusty May, following his dominant performance against the Arizona Wildcats.

The Zaragoza center, an absolute standout with 26 points in the semifinals, highlighted the process experienced throughout the season, marked by challenging moments.

“Very proud to have the opportunity to be part of this group and play at this level. It has been a process of not giving up when things were tough and continuing to work,” Mara explained in a press conference.

The Spanish forward acknowledged the demands of the season, while also emphasizing the enjoyment within a team that has overcome difficulties. “It has been a tough, but fun year. But we know it's not enough, and we have one more to go,” he added, referring to the upcoming final after defeating Arizona (91-73).

From the sidelines, Dusty May spared no praise for his player, considering him a key piece on both ends of the court. “He has been sensational. He dominated the boards, served as an outlet against defensive pressure, and a force underneath the basket,” he affirmed.

The coach particularly highlighted his defensive impact, crucial in neutralizing Arizona in the paint: “He is a very smart player. He has a great ability to protect the rim. He did a great job forcing many errors near the basket.”

Evolution and Future Prospects

May also focused on the Spanish center's progression since joining the program. “He has done a great job. It takes time to grow into this role. Physically, he is much more mature now,” he explained.

Moreover, he recalled that his potential was already evident in previous stages: “Looking back at what he did with Spain and Zaragoza, you could already see what he has become today.” An evolution that, according to the coach, could continue in the NBA: “He could be a lottery pick or a top 10 in the Draft.”

With Michigan heading towards the title and Mara at the peak of his college career, the Spanish player now faces the greatest challenge: sealing the journey with the championship.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Dusty May, sobre Aday Mara tras llegar a la final de la NCAA: "Puede ser Top 10 del Draft"