Karim López poised to be first Mexican NBA draft first-rounder
Sports Illustrated • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 11:00 AM
Last updated Jun 18, 2026

Karim López aims to make history as the first Mexican-born player selected in the NBA draft's first round. Born in Hermosillo, Sonora, López seeks to inspire a new generation of basketball players from Mexico. His potential selection highlights the growing recognition of Mexican talent in the sport. The draft is set for later this month.
- •López hails from Hermosillo, Sonora.
- •He hopes to spark interest in basketball among Mexican youth.
- •The NBA draft takes place at the end of June.
- •López's draft position reflects his growing prominence in college basketball.
- 11:00 AMSports Illustrated — How Karim López Became Mexico’s Biggest NBA Prospect in Decades - Sports Illustrated
"Set to become the first Mexican-born, NBA draft first-rounder, López hopes to ignite a new generation of hoops stars from his home country.
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