The NZ Breakers are looking toward Karim Lopez to continue his red-hot form when his side take on Brisbane Bullets at Wolfbrook Arena in Christchurch on Friday night.
The 17-year-old broke his own Australian National Basketball League (ANBL) record for the highest points scored by a player aged under-18 in a 40-minute game last Saturday, dropping 20 points along with six rebounds, two blocks, and a steal against the South East Melbourne Phoenix.
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Over his past four outings, Lopez has averaged 18 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game while shooting an impressive 58 percent from the field.
Earlier this season he also became the youngest player in ANBL history to record a double-double when he went off for 17 points and 10 rebounds against Melbourne United.
Lopez is eager to keep the momentum rolling as the Breakers look to finish their season strongly.
“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.
“I just try to put in the work every day and give my 100 percent. It’s easier when you have great teammates and people who believe in you.”
Lopez, who is with the Breakers for two seasons as part of the ‘Next Star’ programme, is projected as a first round pick when he is eligible for the NBA Draft in 2026.
Former young Breakers players RJ Hampton, Ousmane Dieng, Hugo Besson and Rayan Rupert were all developed through the club before being drafted.
Breakers head coach Petteri Koponen has been impressed with Lopez’s relentless work ethic and maturity beyond his years.
“He’s a special talent and special guy,” 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, Lopez arrived in New Zealand with an impressive resume having spent time with Joventut Badalona in Spain and representing his country on the international stage.