The 6'5" forward played both his High School and Junior College basketball in the Central Valley. Lopez starred at Oakdale High School before playing a year each at Columbia College and Modesto Junior College.

Fabian made All Valley Oak League Honorable Mention as a Junior in 2006, before following that up with First Team selection as a Senior. Lopez led the Mustangs in nearly every category in 2006-2007; scoring (14.4), rebounds (8.7), assists (3.3) and steals (1.7). He was selected for both the six counties all star game in 2007, as well as, the Mother lode extravaganza all star game, where he poured in 20 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Lopez ended his career at Oakdale as one of the top 5 scorers in Mustang history.

While at Columbia College Fabian was named to the 07-08 Central Valley Conference All-Freshman Team, before leaving the Claim Jumpers for Modesto College prior to the 2008-2009 season.

"Fabian is one of those individuals who you enjoy playing with, he plays both ends hard, has a great motor and is a tremendous passer." Said HNU Head Coach Dennis Jones, "he is a capable scorer, but has a significant impact on a game without scoring a point, we are fortunate he chose to be a Hawk."