NBL Next Stars: Karim Lopez attracts NBA scouts

• 17-year-old Mexican wing Karim Lopez joins Breakers as Next Star
• Lopez led 2023 FIBA U16 Americas in scoring, averaging 20.5 points
• Projected top NBA Draft pick in 2026, known for versatility and athleticism

Karim Lopez, a 17-year-old Mexican basketball prodigy, has signed with the New Zealand Breakers as a Next Star for the upcoming NBL seasons.

Rising Mexican Talent Joins NBL

The New Zealand Breakers have secured a significant addition to their roster with the signing of Karim Lopez as part of the NBL's Next Stars program. Standing at an impressive 202 cm (6-foot-8) and weighing 88 kg, Lopez is a versatile wing player who has already made waves in international competitions. His length and athleticism are particularly noteworthy, allowing him to excel in transition and defend multiple positions effectively.

Lopez's potential has been evident in his recent performances. He dominated the 2023 FIBA U16 Americas tournament, leading all scorers with an average of 20.5 points per game. This remarkable showing demonstrated his ability to compete at a high level against his peers. More recently, Lopez impressed scouts and fans alike with his contributions to the Mexican senior national team during the 2024 FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Puerto Rico.

"We're thrilled to have Karim join our organisation," said a Breakers spokesperson. "His skill set and physical tools are exceptional for his age, and we believe he'll thrive in our development system."

NBA Draft Prospect in the Making

The acquisition of Lopez is not just a coup for the Breakers but also a significant development in the young player's career trajectory. NBA scouts have already taken notice of his potential, with projections placing him as a top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, for which he will first become eligible.

Lopez's decision to join the NBL aligns with a growing trend of international prospects using the league as a stepping stone to the NBA. The Next Stars program has proven to be a successful pathway for young talents to gain professional experience and exposure to high-level competition.

"I'm excited to start this new chapter with the Breakers," Lopez stated. "The NBL is known for developing young players, and I'm ready to work hard and improve my game against professional competition."

As Lopez prepares to make his mark in the NBL, basketball fans in Australia and New Zealand will have the opportunity to witness the development of a potential future NBA star. The Breakers' investment in Lopez underscores the team's commitment to nurturing young talent and competing at the highest level of Australian basketball.

With the 2024-25 NBL season on the horizon, all eyes will be on Karim Lopez as he begins his professional journey with the New Zealand Breakers, aiming to make an immediate impact and solidify his status as one of basketball's most promising young prospects.