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Lebron Lopez turns pro, signs with Overtime Elite League in US
Barely a month since his Gilas Pilipinas debut, Lebron Lopez is taking his act to the United States after signing with Overtime Elite League—a newly-formed league that could serve as a pathway to the NBA.
The 18-year-old bared the news on his Instagram account on Tuesday.
"I am humbled and grateful to Overtime Elite (OTE) for believing in me and helping me get closer to my dreams. I will work hard to live up to their faith," he said.
"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!" he added.
The Ateneo Blue Eaglets forward suited up for the Philippines during the final window of the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers in Clark.
With this new endeavor, Lopez gave credit to Baldwin as well as Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) president Al Panlilio for being supportive of his decision.
"I want to say a special thank you to the people who helped me at the beginning of my journey—Coach Reggie and Coach Tab and Mr. Al Panlilio and Mr. Pangilinan and the SBP—they saw the spark of potential in a young kid and supported it," he said.
"I am forever grateful."
—Bea Micaller/MGP, GMA News
