Karim Lopez, Mexico
Power Forward
Club Joventut Badalona
April 12, 2007 (16)
FIBA Stats
20.5 points (Led FIBA U16 Americas)
12.2 rebounds (Second in FIBA U16 Americas)
2.5 assists
2.8 blocks (Led FIBA U16 Americas)
4 double-doubles in FIBA U16 Americas (Cameron Boozer had 3)
32 points vs. Uruguay (FIBA U16 game-high)
Attempted 17 free throws, made 12
[Started for Joventut U18 team in Spain Junior’s Championship (Played up)]
3x3 - Three Pros, Three Progressions
Pros
Size
Standing at 6-foot-8, about 200 pounds, Lopez has an impressive frame for a 16-year-old. When looking at the wing-heavy 2026 class, Lopez falls in line with the profile of those who will be highly sought after like Cameron Boozer and Koa Peat; Long arms, large hands, broad shoulders, and big feet. I got a good look at Lopez next to Boozer and Peat during the FIBA U16 Americas and it’s evident that Lopez is slightly taller than Peat, but a hair shorter than Boozer. In terms of weight and strength, Boozer and Peat are certainly more filled out than Lopez. However, Lopez’s frame appears capable of taking on muscle comparable to his class comrades — some intentionality in the weight room and dining room would go a long way. He’s by no means skinny or fragile.
Defense
Lopez’s impact on the defensive end is undoubtedly his calling card right now. He is an ambitious shot blocker who frequently switches between the four and five spots and enjoys contesting all shots in his vicinity. He’s already proficient at contesting shots while remaining vertical. He’s not impossible to shoot over but offers good contact on shot attempts. He could benefit from a stronger base while defending, assisting him in walling up and stopping scoring threats from establishing deeper positioning. Really large hands that have assisted in blocking shots that were seemingly out of reach. He does a good job of fighting for/denying position to low-block dwellers. Has the tools to be a spectacular defender.
Intangibles
Effort is noticeable in every game. He has a great motor and runs the floor very well. Very long and fluid strides during change of possessions. Crashes the glass very well. Strong rebounder who likes the dirty work. Can sometimes get too ambitious on rebound and block attempts, leading to unnecessary or untimely fouls— has to learn how to pick his spots better. Strong enough handle to get the ball off the rim and advance in transition, attack the basket, or find an open man.
Progressions
Jump Shot
Proficient jump shooting at his size would be mesmerizing. He definitely has potential, however, he’s not quite there yet. Shot mechanics need a lot of work from top to bottom. His feet are all over the place with no two jumpers looking the same. I can tell he’s been focused on becoming a shooting threat though. Had some impressive makes in FIBA U16 Americas in transition. Haven’t seen him make any shots off the dribble (except for maybe one mid-range dribble pull-up at the elbow). He’s attempted the trendy side-step jumper but it wasn’t pretty. Have also seen him attempt step-backs to no avail. Rarely holds his follow-through — currently a flick shooter. Not much arc on his shot. He could benefit from elevating his elbow through his release, which would also assist in a higher release point. Doesn’t get much elevation and sometimes it’s hard to identify any dip in his legs — even on free throws he’s noticeably upright throughout his routine.
Shot close finishing (touch)
The biggest growth point for Lopez is his finishing. At his size, he shouldn’t be missing the bunnies he does. Needs more reps off the glass. Needs help understanding angles, touch, and improving coordination. Too many times he’s drifting away from the basket on drives rather than initiating, and absorbing contact while getting to his desired spot. He’s more comfortable with sweeping layups than going through the defender’s chest. This can be remedied by a better understanding of his body while also gaining confidence through filling out his frame— weight room. I don’t think he quite understands how big he is just yet.
Scoring
This progression point closely coincides with comments made in the aforementioned “shot close finishing” blurb. He’s very raw all around but has produced big-time scoring outputs. That’s a positive indicator of how much potential is present. A lot of the spectacular plays he makes are a byproduct of him just trying things while keeping his foot on the gas. He spins often in 1-on-1 situations which indicates a current lack of confidence in his handle specifically as a shot creator. You can drill skill work and shot creation, but you can’t drill size and effort. He’s not there yet but he can be.
Karim Lopez, Mexico | Scoutology Podcast Ep. 2