Karim Lopez drafted by Pistons, first Mexico-born player in NBA history
ESPN NBA • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 24, 2026, 3:36 AM
Last updated Jun 24, 2026
Karim Lopez made history on June 23, 2026, as the first player born in Mexico selected in the first round of the NBA draft. The Detroit Pistons chose him with the 21st pick before trading him to the Memphis Grizzlies later that night. Lopez's selection highlights the growing representation of international players in the NBA. With his transition to Memphis, further developments regarding his role within the Grizzlies are anticipated.
- •Karim Lopez was selected No. 21 by the Pistons.
- •He is the first Mexico-born player in NBA history.
- •The Pistons traded him to the Grizzlies on draft night.
- •The draft took place on June 23, 2026.
- •Lopez's impact on the Grizzlies is yet to be determined.
- 4:28 AMESPN NBA — Lopez becomes NBA's 1st Mexico-born 1st-rounder
"Karim Lopez became the first player born in Mexico to be selected in the first round of the NBA draft, being selected with the No. 21 pick to the Detroit Pistons before being traded to the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday night.
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