Maryland star Derik Queen has decided to leave school early and go pro, he said on SportsCenter with Scott Van Pelt (YouTube link).
“I’m proud to say I’m entering the 2025 NBA draft,” the 6’10” center said.
Queen’s decision isn’t a surprise. He is projected to go No. 10 overall in ESPN’s latest mock draft, per Myron Medcalf of ESPN.com, and is the No. 10 prospect on their latest big board (from last week).
Queen was highly productive in his freshman season with the Terrapins, averaging 16.5 points, 9.0 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.1 steals and 1.1 blocks in 36 appearances (30.4 minutes per contest). He helped guide Maryland to a 27-9 record and a spot in the Sweet 16, scoring 27 points in a loss to Florida.
As Metcalf notes, the Baltimore native boosted his stock with some impressive postseason performances, including a game-winner in the second round of the NCAA tournament against Colorado State.
So, who is going to be the first to criticize Queen and say he is to small. He can’t play man-to-man…Funny
He’s young enough that he may still grow a bit physically. He is hyper talented and sometimes in college and in high school, players who have that much talent and immediate success don’t recognize the value of dedication in the weight room. So far it’s easily observed he hasn’t developed that off-court part of his profile, but that is an easy fix. He needs a solid organization with respected vets to make good on his sky high potential. I don’t think it’s wise yet to treat him as an immediate, sure fire NBA producer. More guys with his make up flame out than put in the work to turn themselves into studs.
I was mocking someone who said 6’10” players can’t play Center.
Dairy Queen is entering the draft?
He’s gonna go higher than 10.
I hope the Bulls are paying attention.
Queen has game. Has to get in better shape. Then he could be special. Smart big who can play 4-5. Definitely a top 10 pick. Best big after Maluach. If Maluach is gone. I can see Nets taking him. Bulls definitely should be looking at him. Raptors will be too. Sixers tanked their way to top 5.