LAS VEGAS — Brook Lopez said Monday that the decision to sign with the Los Angeles Clippers was about more than basketball—it was about coming home.
Lopez, a North Hollywood native, told reporters during his introductory press conference that returning to Southern California and playing in front of family and friends played a major role in his free agency decision.
“I’m a Cali boy. I grew up in the Valley, in North Hollywood,” Lopez said. “To see where the Clippers have come now, it’s just astonishing, it’s beautiful. I’m glad to be a part of it.”
Lopez agreed to a two-year, $18 million contract with the Clippers after spending the last seven seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he won an NBA title in 2021. He said his decision to join the Clippers was also influenced by his relationship with team president Lawrence Frank, who coached him during his rookie season with the then-New Jersey Nets in 2008.
“It’s kind of a full-circle moment,” Lopez said. “Everything happened pretty fast, but looking at my options, I was just thrilled the Clippers reached out and were one of them.”
The 36-year-old center also pointed to the opportunity to mentor younger players and complement Ivica Zubac in the frontcourt as key reasons for his move. Lopez envisions the two working as a “twin towers” pairing in L.A.’s lineup.
“I think we complement each other extremely well,” Lopez said. “Defensively, we’re going to be a force in the paint. Offensively, we can play off each other, too.”
Lopez praised the Clippers’ veteran leadership, including Kawhi Leonard, James Harden and Paul George, and expressed excitement about playing for coach Tyronn Lue. He said he’s looking forward to sharing the lessons he’s learned from past mentors like Kevin Garnett with his new teammates.
“I was fortunate to play with a lot of great players in my career,” Lopez said. “It’s only right to pass on the things they taught me.”
Lopez averaged 13.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game last season with Milwaukee. He adds rim protection, playoff experience and perimeter shooting to a Clippers team aiming to make a championship run in the 2025-26 season.
“It’s about family, it’s about basketball, and it’s about chasing another title,” Lopez said. “That’s why I’m here.”