Karim Lopez Inks Rookie Deal With Grizzlies
karim-lopez-inks-rookie-deal-with-grizzlies
The Memphis Grizzlies have finalized a rookie-scale contract with first-round pick Karim Lopez, the club announced Wednesday.
The 19-year-old small forward, chosen No. 21 overall after Memphis traded down twice on draft night, becomes the last first-round selection from the 2026 class to sign. His four-year deal is projected at $18,368,804, starting with a $3,746,760 salary for the 2026-27 season. The agreement follows standard rookie-scale terms, giving the Grizzlies team options on the third and fourth years.
Lopez did not participate in Summer League play while recovering from a mild left hamstring strain sustained during the pre-draft process. He spent the past two seasons with the New Zealand Breakers in the Australian NBL’s Next Stars program, averaging 10.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.0 block over 24.4 minutes in 58 games, 53 of them starts. His 358 points last season set a Next Stars record for a draft-eligible player.
Born in Hermosillo, Mexico, and a member of the Mexican national team, Lopez is the first Mexican-born athlete ever taken in the first round of an NBA draft.
Memphis’ crowded roster slowed the signing process for its 2026 selections; No. 3 pick Cameron Boozer signed on July 13, while second-round choice Richie Saunders (No. 32) remains unsigned.
Source: HoopsRumors
