Karim Lopez has been tipped to make NBA history as the first Mexican-born prospect to ever be selected in the first round, having declared for the 2026 NBA Draft.
The forward has informed ESPN of his decision, following two seasons with the New Zealand Breakers in Australia.
The network has Lopez listed at No. 11 on its big board.
“It’s been my dream and my goal my whole life to play in the NBA,” he told ESPN. “Honestly, since I can remember. I was probably like 5 years old, making drawings of myself playing in the NBA. … It’s pretty special, you know, to be in this position right now.
“[The NBL] was a lot of learning in both years, a great chapter of my life,” Lopez said. “I think once I was completely healthy, [this season] took off in the right direction. Obviously, I would have liked to make the playoffs, but winning the Ignite Cup was big time. I’m really happy about the experience I gained, all the preparation.”
Mexico's Karim Lopez – the No. 11 prospect on ESPN's Big Board – has declared for the 2026 NBA draft and is projected to become the first Mexico-born first-round pick in league history.
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Karim Lopez Wants to Inspire Mexican Youth
Karim Lopez in Mexico jerseykarim_lopez21/Instagram (karim_lopez21/Instagram)
Standing at 6’9”, the Mexican prodigy boasts a 7’1” wingspan. He has shown impressive grit, ball-handling, and playmaking skills, though his perimeter shooting needs work.
“I want to show NBA teams who I am,” he said. “Playing in a grown man league, it’s not easy. But there’s things I feel like people haven’t seen yet.”
Lopez’s father, Jesús Hiram Lopez, was a national player for Mexico. He is now projected to be the first Mexican native ever drafted in the first round.
“A goal of mine is to hopefully reach young people in Mexico,” he added. “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.”
