Grizzlies rookie Karim Lopez gets chants from fans, first career basket

In the final moments of their October 31st home game against the Sacramento Kings, Memphis Grizzlies rookie Karim Lopez received enthusiastic support from the crowd. As the fourth quarter drew to a close, fans at FedExForum chanted, "We want Lopez!" echoing throughout the arena. Lopez, the first Mexican-born first-round pick in NBA history, entered the game with just 4 minutes and 15 seconds remaining and promptly scored his first career basket with 30.5 seconds left on the clock. The Grizzlies ultimately emerged victorious, defeating the Kings 136-105.

Karim Lopez expressed his excitement at finally securing his first points for the team. While acknowledging that Carson Cooper was wide open, he chose to attempt a layup, stating, "It was a super nice moment. I'm not going to lie, Cooper was wide open, but I'm not swinging that. I'm going to be honest. You got to get those first points." Both Lopez and Cooper scored their first career points during the fourth quarter, with Cooper adding a free throw.

The Grizzlies players were celebrated in the locker room and presented with game balls following the game. Lopez revealed that he had previously experienced chanting from fans when he received his first game action against the Portland Trail Blazers, finishing with a single rebound. This time, however, the fans were more vocal in their support as Lopez entered the game at home, receiving a loud cheer after his first career basket.