Rising Next Star to miss Phoenix clash

The New Zealand Breakers have announced that their NBL Next Star Karim Lopez will miss Thursday’s Round 20 clash with South East Melbourne.

The Mexican 18-year-old, who scored a career-high 32 points last round against Melbourne, is sidelined due to a lower leg issue.

Following a recent medical assessment, the Breakers said they are “taking a cautious approach to prioritise his long-term health and welfare”.

Lopez joins Sam Mennenga (wrist), Rob Baker II (knee) and Izayah Le’Afa (foot) on the sidelines for Petteri Koponen’s side.

The Round 20 fixture at Spark Arena tips off at 5.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.