Ateneo’s Francis ‘LeBron’ Lopez set to play in the US!

Photo credit: Francis Lebron Lopez/Instagram 

By Kriel Ibarrola

Francis Leo “LeBron” Lopez. Remember the name, folks. He might just be the next big thing in Philippine basketball.

The 18-year-old Ateneo Blue Eaglet and Gilas Pilipinas member just got the biggest break of his life. He will be taking his talents to the United States to play in the upcoming Overtime Elite League (OTE).

Lopez announced this on his social media accounts:

"I am humbled and grateful to (OTE) for believing in me and helping me get closer to my dreams. I will work hard to live up to their faith. As OTE leadership said, I will be the first Filipino player to join them. It is an honor that I will not take for granted. I will not let our country down. I will work very hard to represent us well!"

Wow! Kudos to our very own Pinoy LeBron! Galingan mo, Francis! We’re behind you all the way!

READ: Gilas' LeBron Lopez turns pro, signs with Overtime Elite League

While the OTE is a relatively new league, it prides itself as a transformative new sports league that offers the world’s most talented young basketball players a better pathway to becoming professional athletes."

Lopez is the first Filipino in the OTE. Galing! Despite limited minutes for Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers, he certainly played well.

Lopez joins the long-list of up-and-coming Pinoy ballers who will be playing overseas this year. For sure, these guys will proudly represent the flag abroad.

The 6-foot-6 highflyer will be taking on the same route that Kai Sotto traversed not too long ago when he signed with East West Private and played for The Skill Factory. Look where he is now: Sotto will be playing in the NBL for the Adelaide 36ers.

Recently, Kobe Paras also went to the US for his next step. So, maybe Lopez and Paras will cross paths soon!

Lopez’ news, however, is kind of bittersweet for Ateneo fans in the UAAP. Yup, this means he won’t be jumping to the senior’s team anytime soon.

Ok lang, Francis. Hone your game muna and chase those dreams!

So, just how good do you think Francis Lopez will be?

ALSO READ: LeBron Lopez last man out of Gilas' 12-member roster for Olympic qualifiers in Serbia