Next Star solidifying draft stock

In the latest ESPN 2026 NBA mock draft, New Zealand Breakers' NBL Next Star, Karim Lopez, has solidified his spot as one of the top prospects of his class.

The 18-year-old sits at number 11 in the mock draft after a very promising season with the Breakers, where his offensive production has seen significant improvement. While still on a minutes restriction from an off-season back concern, Lopez is averaging almost 11 points and six rebounds per game, while shooting 39 per cent from three.

As Jeremy Woo writes in the mock draft, Lopez’s improvement in his shooting splits will make it “easier to envision him carving out an NBA role.”

After not being eligible for the draft last season, Lopez has become an integral piece of the Breakers team and will continue to do so as his team looks to push for a Playoff berth.

Fellow Next Star Dash Daniels, who has played a key role in Melbourne United's 13-6 record, is also projected as a first round pick by Woo, being placed at spot 26.

As Lopez and Daniels continue to rise in the NBL, former Next Star Josh Giddey continues to impress on the biggest stage and now looks to add a new achievement to his impressive resume.

The Chicago Bulls playmaker is averaging almost a triple-double this season and is gaining traction towards a first All-Star game selection.

Voting is now open here.