As the dream became reality for NBL Next Star Karim Lopez, the hype surrounding the Mexican teenager has only continued to build as he prepares to join the Memphis Grizzlies.

“This kid, he’s a lottery pick… they just got a steal,” Fran Fraschilla said after Lopez was selected with pick 21 by Detroit, before the selection was traded to Memphis.

“This kid before he had a driver’s license had 13 points, 7 rebounds and three assists against the Utah Jazz when he was 17.

“He just played two years in a tough grown-up league, and he will play his entire rookie season at 19 years old.”

Lopez made history as the first Mexican-born player selected in the first round, and the significance of the moment was written all over his face. Overcome with emotion during his first interview, the star wing proudly showed off his custom suit, designed as a tribute to his homeland.

After two standout seasons with the New Zealand Breakers, Lopez also became the 12th NBL Next Star to be drafted directly out of the NBL.

“He’s athletic, he’s tough, he’s played, he’s got a lot of experience. He does have to work on the jump shot, but there’s nothing wrong with it,” Fraschilla added.

Praise for Lopez extended well beyond the ESPN broadcast.

NBA analyst Kevin O’Connor compared the 19-year-old to one of the league’s most versatile forwards.

“He’s like Aaron Gordon without elite athleticism. Do-it-all guy. Won’t be in dunk contests but can do a little bit of everything. Love it for the Grizzlies.”

Local media in Memphis also highlighted the value of the selection, with the Daily Memphian’s Chris Herrington pointing to Lopez’s professional experience in the Hungry Jack’s NBL.

“In taking Lopez at No. 21, the Grizzlies added a young player who’s already been productive in a professional league, the Australia/New Zealand-based National Basketball League.”

While many predicted Lopez would be selected earlier in the night, Fraschilla believes the Grizzlies have landed a player capable of making an immediate impact.

“Are you kidding me? He’s not two years away,” he said.

“He has a chance to help these guys pretty early in his career because of all that experience. My friends down south of the border, my Mexican basketball friends, are slapping high five right now. They’re probably having a little tequila too.”