Thunder Rookies Shine in 2026 NBA Draft Photo Shoot

First Look at New Faces

The Oklahoma City Thunder are preparing to leave Las Vegas after an extended stay, and the 2026 NBA Summer League marks a fresh start for the franchise. Fans will see Aday Mara and Bennett Stirtz take the court for the first time in Thunder uniforms during the July festivities. These early appearances signal the beginning of a rebuilding phase for the team.

Rookie outings are a highlight of summer league, as each player makes their debut in NBA garb under the bright Nevada sun. The Thunder joined a league‑wide photo shoot that captured Mara, Stirtz and Otega Oweh in the same frame, emphasizing the club’s focus on its 2026 class. The images give fans a rare glance at the trio before the regular season begins.

Draft Picks Highlight

OKC acquired Mara with the 12th overall selection, highlighting the franchise’s early commitment to building around a versatile forward. Stirtz, chosen 16th, adds a sharpshooting presence that the team hopes will become a cornerstone. Oweh rounded out the group with the 41st pick, offering defensive intensity that complements the other two draftees.

Photo Gallery

The rookie photo shoot produced five official portraits that showcase each new face of the Thunder. These images are styled with tonal effects and clearly display each player’s number and team affiliation. The series captures the players in a uniform pose typical of NBA rookie media events.

The first portrait features Bennett Stirtz as he strikes a confident pose in his rookie uniform. The shot uses studio lighting to highlight his #14 and the crispness of the Thunder apparel. This image gives fans an early look at what the 2026 class will bring to the court.

Aday Mara is shown next, standing with a determined expression that reflects his forward mentality. The photograph captures the depth of his shooting range and the professionalism of his debut season. This image underscores the Thunder’s investment in a player slated for a significant role.

Otega Oweh appears in a defensive stance, demonstrating the energy expected from a late‑round pick. The lighting emphasizes his intensity and the tenacity that the franchise hopes will translate to on‑court performance. This portrait highlights the upside the Thunder see in a player with high upside.

Otega Oweh’s second portrait focuses on his composure and poise, qualities that suggest he can handle the pressure of the NBA level. The styling underscores his leadership potential as a newer draft pick. This image rounds out the series, giving fans a complete view of OKC’s rookie class.

These snapshots capture the optimism surrounding Oklahoma City’s 2026 draft class, blending seasoned talent with promising newcomers. The photo shoot serves as a visual reminder of the Thunder’s strategic rebuild and the expectations riding on these fresh faces. As the team heads into a new season, the images will remain a reference point for fans and analysts alike. Looking ahead, the debut performances of Mara, Stirtz and Oweh will be closely watched, signaling whether the franchise’s direction is paying dividends on and off the court. The summer league will be a proving ground for each player, and the excitement generated by these portraits hints at what could become a standout rookie season for at least one of the newcomers.