How Mexican-born Karim Lopez made NBA Draft history in 2026 by becoming first-round selection
Here's a look at the history that Lopez made when he was selected in the first round.
How Mexican-born Karim Lopez made NBA Draft history in 2026 by becoming first-round selection originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The NBA Draft is full of big names, but a lesser-known prospect made some special history Tuesday night.
Karim Lopez heard his name called in the first round, becoming a pioneer for Mexican basketball. The 18-year-old spent his childhood in Mexico before moving overseas as a teenager to begin his professional career.The NBA has not featured many Mexican players, which is why Lopez's decision to enter the draft was such a significant moment.
Here's a look at the history Lopez made Tuesday night.2026 NBA DRAFT HQ: Live picks tracker | Pick-by-pick grades | Best players still availableHow Karim Lopez made Mexican NBA historyLopez became the first Mexican-born player selected in the first round of the NBA Draft when the Memphis Grizzlies chose him with the No. 21 overall pick.
Memphis acquired the selection after trading back with the Detroit Pistons, who originally owned the pick.Lopez was born in Hermosillo, Mexico, but developed professionally overseas in preparation for the NBA. He spent one season in Spain before playing the past two years in New Zealand ahead of entering the 2026 NBA Draft.
At the NBA Draft in New York, Lopez is representing his heritage through his suit.Karim López could become the first Mexican-born player to be picked in the first round of the NBA draft 🇲🇽👏 pic.twitter.
com/7cmmJKJWz4— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) June 23, 2026MORE: How Cam Boozer fits with the GrizzliesKarim Lopez fit with GrizzliesLopez spent the past two seasons playing in New Zealand's National Basketball League and is coming off a career-best campaign in 2025-26. He appeared in 31 games last season, averaging 11.9 points and 6.
1 rebounds in 25.8 minutes per game.In the NBA, Lopez is expected to provide strong defense and perimeter shooting.
The 6-foot-9 wing shot 32.6 percent from 3
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