Mexican Prospect Karim Lopez Declares for 2026 NBA Draft
Hermosillo, Mexico native Karim Lopez, currently playing for the New Zealand Breakers in the Australian NBL, has officially declared for the 2026 NBA Draft. The announcement, made on Monday, March 23, 2026, marks a significant moment as Lopez is projected to become the first player born in Mexico to be selected in the first round of the NBA draft. ESPN first reported the news.
A Lifelong Dream Realized
“It’s been my dream and my goal my whole life to play in the NBA,” Lopez told ESPN. “Honestly, since I can remember. I was probably like 5 years ancient, making drawings of myself playing in the NBA… It’s pretty special, you grasp, to be in this position right now.”
NBL Success and Rising Stock
The 6-foot-9 forward has spent the past two seasons with the New Zealand Breakers, showcasing his skills in the Australian NBL. This season, Lopez averaged 11.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 49% shooting from the field in 25.6 minutes per game. NBL.com.au highlights his recent surge in draft rankings, climbing back into ESPN’s Top 10 prospects.
Lopez set a single-season points record for draft-eligible NBL Next Stars, totaling 358 points in 30 starts. He also tied the record for total steals and blocks with 66. Despite the Breakers’ 14-20 record, the team won the NBL’s inaugural Ignite Cup in February, with Lopez playing a key role.
Overcoming Obstacles and Future Aspirations
Lopez’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. He recovered from a summer back injury to significantly improve his performance in his second NBL season, highlighted by a 32-point game against Melbourne United on January 30th. ESPN Deportes notes his dedication to growth and preparation.
“I want to show NBA teams who I am,” Lopez stated to ESPN. “Playing in a grown man league, it’s not straightforward. But there’s things I feel like people haven’t seen yet.”
A Source of Inspiration for Mexico
Lopez, whose father is former Mexican national team player Jesús Hiram Lopez, aims to inspire young athletes in Mexico. He moved to Spain at age 14 to join Joventut Badalona before joining the Breakers in 2024. “A goal of mine is to hopefully reach young people in Mexico,” Lopez said. “Trying to grow the sport and inspire athletes and people in general to follow their dreams. Show people that it doesn’t matter where you’re from.”
Next Steps
Lopez is currently ranked as the No. 11 player on ESPN’s big board and the top-ranked international prospect. He will participate in the NBA draft combine, taking place May 10-17 in Chicago, before the draft is held in late June.