Lopez lights up NBL with scoring record run

Teenaged BNZ Breakers sensation Karim Lopez broke his own record once again on Saturday night, scoring the highest NBL tally for a player aged under 18 in a 40 minute match.

The 17-year-old put in an impressive performance against S.E. Melbourne Phoenix with 20 points along with six rebounds, two blocks and a steal.

Over his past four games, Lopez has been in sublime form averaging 18 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game while shooting 58% from the field.

Earlier this season he also became the youngest player in NBL history to record a double-double when he went off for 17 points and 10 rebounds against Melbourne United.

“I’m playing with much more confidence. My teammates and coaches really believe in me and that’s a big part of it,” he said after the Phoenix match.

“I just try to put in the work every day and come out there and give my 100%. It’s easier when you have get teammates and people who believe in you.”

Lopez, who is with the Breakers for two seasons through the NBL Next Stars programme, is projected as a first round pick when he is eligible for the NBA Draft in 2026.

The Breakers have a strong history of preparing young stars for the NBA with RJ Hampton, Ousmane Dieng, Rayan Rupert and Hugo Besson all developing through the club before being drafted.

With his blend of size, vision and speed, Lopez has already become a key contributor for the Breakers despite his young age.

“He’s a special talent and special guy,” head coach Petteri Koponen said.

“Everything comes down to are you ready to put in the work, and this guy is ready. He always wants to work and sometimes we have to calm him down to take some rest - he has a great work ethic.

“In this world there are a lot of guys who say they want to make it, but not many who want to put the work in and have the attitude to get better every day. 

“He’s got his goals and knows where he wants to get to. He’s been huge for us this season and is just getting better and better.”

Hailing from Mexico but having spent time in Spain, Lopez arrived in New Zealand with an already impressive resume. 

Having played the past two seasons with Joventut Badalona, he gained valuable experience in senior basketball before making the move to the NBL. 

On the international stage he has also represented Mexico six times, following in the footsteps of his father Jesus ‘Chino’ Lopez who also represented his country.

Lopez and the BNZ Breakers are back in action at 7.30pm this Friday night when they host Brisbane Bullets at Wolfbrook Arena in Christchurch.