Overtime Elite continues to lock in young talent as they pursue their mission to provide an alternative path to the pros. Their latest signing comes all the way from the other side of the globe, as Filipino high school star Francis “Lebron” Lopez is the addition to the fledgling league.

Lebron Lopez is a 6-foot-5 wing that's shown immense athletic ability as a teenager. He's set to show his wares as the first Filipino prospect to make the jump to Overtime Elite.

Brandon Williams, OTE head of basketball operations, spoke out on the addition of Lebron Lopez:

Via Sports Illustrated's Jason Jordan:

“We’re delighted to have Lebron join the OTE family as we expand our international reach, bringing in top talent from across the globe,” said Williams. “Francis is a young man who has impressed us with both the combination of pure passion for the game and self-improvement, physical athleticism, work ethic, as well as many leadership intangibles. He’s the kind of player we want and expect to thrive at OTE.”

Lebron Lopez himself announced the move on his Instagram page. Making the jump is indeed a risk, as he automatically foregoes his opportunity to play college hoops, both in the United States and in his home country. But such an opportunity for the young athlete could expedite his growth even further, as the teenager has already suited up for their Men's National Team in their FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers and was the final cut for their squad that participated in the Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

Overtime Elite is slowly becoming a viable option for high school prospects to earn some coin before turning pro. Instead of going to college where you'll have to split your time with academics, the allure of joining a professional circuit entirely dedicated to hoops, and making some cash to do it, certainly has its appeal. Add Lebron Lopez to a growing list of youngsters making the jump.