""It's been my dream and my goal my whole life to play in the NBA. 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. 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.""
""I want to show NBA teams who I am. Playing in a grown man league, it's not easy. But there'"
Karim Lopez, a 19-year-old forward, has declared for the 2026 NBA draft. He played two seasons with the New Zealand Breakers in the NBL, averaging 11.9 points and 6.1 rebounds this season. Lopez set records for draft-eligible NBL Next Stars, including total points and tied for steals and blocks. He played a key role in winning the Ignite Cup. Lopez aims to improve his perimeter shooting and physical explosiveness as he prepares for the draft.
Read at ESPN.com
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