Mexican basketball experienced a historic day this Thursday, October 29, after Sonoran Karim López officially debuted in the NBA with the Memphis Grizzlies, becoming the fifth player born in Mexico to participate in the world's premier basketball league. The 19-year-old had his first minutes in the game against the Portland Trail Blazers, ending a wait of 10 years, five months, and 28 days since the last appearance of a basketball player born in the country, recorded by Jorge Gutiérrez on May 1, 2016.

The native of Hermosillo, Sonora, entered the court during the final minutes of the fourth quarter, when the Memphis team had practically secured the result. In his first participation, López grabbed one rebound, did not score any points, and registered a three-point attempt that he failed to convert. His presentation represents an important step for national sports, as previously only Horacio Llamas, Eduardo Nájera, Gustavo Ayón, and Jorge Gutiérrez had managed to play official NBA games after being born in Mexico. Furthermore, Karim was selected in the first round of the 2026 Draft, with the 21st pick.

The night also proved favorable for the Grizzlies, who won by a score of 124-103 against Portland and extended their perfect start to five consecutive victories, remaining undefeated in the season. The game had special significance as it coincided with a Hispanic and Latin heritage celebration organized by the Trail Blazers, which featured the presence of mariachi music. In this way, Karim López's debut not only marked the beginning of his career in American professional basketball but also brought Mexican-born players back to the NBA stage.