For Brook Lopez, returning to California was more than just a homecoming—it was the start of an exciting new chapter. The former Milwaukee Bucks center, who once played for the Los Angeles Lakers, signed with the Los Angeles Clippers in the summer of 2025. The deal, worth $18 million for two seasons, marked the beginning of a thrilling new opportunity with a team that has undergone a stunning transformation over the years.
Lopez, a true California kid, reflects on how far the Clippers have come since his early years in Los Angeles. “Seeing what the Clippers have become now is just mind-blowing,” he says. “Back when I was growing up, things were definitely different. But today, this is an incredible team, and I’m thrilled to be part of it. I want to help them take the next step. I want to win.”
A Dream Team with Leonard and Harden
Joining forces with stars like Kawhi Leonard and James Harden feels like the perfect opportunity to make a push for a championship. Lopez was quick to admit his excitement when the Clippers first reached out to him. “When the Clippers contacted me, I was really pumped because they were on my list. This is a team that’s been good for a while now. They’ve got so many talented players here, future Hall of Famers, All-Stars, and of course, my guy Ivica Zubac,” Lopez shared.
Playing alongside Zubac isn’t a new experience for Lopez. The two previously teamed up on the Lakers during the 2017-2018 season. Since then, Zubac has grown into an even more formidable player. “He’s been getting better and better each season,” Lopez notes. “He can do so many things on the court, and I don’t think we’ve even seen his full potential yet. On defense, we’re going to be a great pairing. We’re both huge, and we’re going to protect the rim well. On offense, I’ll stretch out to give him more room in the paint.”
Lopez’s insights speak to the incredible chemistry he expects to develop with Zubac. Together, they offer a combination of size and skill that could make them one of the most imposing defensive duos in the NBA. This partnership, combined with the star power of Leonard and Harden, puts the Clippers in a strong position to compete at the highest level.
For Lopez, it’s more than just a move for his career. It’s a chance to contribute to a team that has shown so much potential, and to prove that his experience and leadership can help bring the Clippers closer to their ultimate goal—a championship.
