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League: NBASport: BasketballCountry: United StatesCategory: Scores & Results

Grizzlies' Karim López prepares for rookie season after strong NBL tenure

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 21, 2026, 8:35 PM

Last updated Sep 21, 2026

Grizzlies' Karim López prepares for rookie season after strong NBL tenure
Summary

Karim López, selected 21st in the 2026 NBA Draft, joins the Memphis Grizzlies from the New Zealand Breakers. Over two seasons in the NBL, he averaged 10.9 points and 5.5 rebounds, becoming the youngest player to record a double-double in league history. With a wingspan of over 6 feet 11 inches, López is noted for his defensive versatility. Despite a hamstring strain limiting his summer league participation, López aims to strengthen the Grizzlies' young core, which includes fellow draftees and emerging talent. His father, Jesús Hiram López, played professionally in Mexico, further influencing his basketball career.

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Yahoo Sports
By the Numbers
  • •Karim López averaged 11.9 points and 6.1 rebounds last NBL season.
  • •He is the second player from Mexico to be drafted into the NBA.
  • •López grew up idolizing LeBron James, whom he hopes to face on December 1.
  • •He suffered a hamstring strain before summer league, limiting his appearances.
  • •López joined a young Grizzlies team alongside Cedric Coward and Zach Edey.
Latest Updates
  • 8:35 PMYahoo Sports — 5 fun facts: Get to know Grizzlies' Karim López before rookie season
What they're saying
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As the 21st pick in the draft, forward Karim López joins the Grizzlies after two seasons with the New Zealand Breakers of the NBL.

Related Teams & Leagues
Memphis GrizzliesNBABasketball

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