SNAPSHOT
A big man who has a unique skillset with his ability to handle the ball and can score with the best of them, Maryland center Derik Queen is a top-10 fancy and is one of the strongest frontcourt players in the draft crop, as he has shown over the past 12 months.
Although not as prominent on the perimeter as other players, Queen could be a star of the offensive side of the ball if this side of his game develops to match his interior scoring, as well as his rebounding influence and impressive playmaking.
DRAFT PROFILE
Queen stormed onto the scene when he dropped 56 points for Saint Frances Academy when he was in high school, dominating before transferring to Montverde, where he impressed on a loaded roster in limited minutes, and gaining national attention in the process.
A consensus five-star recruit and one of the best players in the 2024 class, he committed to Maryland after considering offers from Indiana, Kansas and Houston as well, rewarding the team that kept tabs on him since his high school days.
Queen made an immediate impact with Maryland, being named First Team All-Big Ten as well as Big Ten Freshman of the Year in an elite start to his NCAA career. His most memorable moment came in the second round of the NCAA National Tournament, nailing a turnaround jumpshot on the buzzer to eliminate Colorado State and help his team advance in a game-winning play.
On the season, Queen averaged 16.5 points, 9.0 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.1 steals and 1.1 blocks per game while shooting 52.6 per cent from the field and 76.6 per cent from the charity stripe with Maryland, proving a central figure to the team's offence.
Queen played to his strengths throughout the 2024/25 season, showcasing his knack for interior scoring, surprising playmaking and offensive upside, and certainly showed NBA scouts that he has the potential to be the number-one option.
STRENGTHS
+ Inside scoring
+ Impressive ball-handling
+ Rebounding
+ Defensive Versatility
IMPROVEMENTS
- Jump shooting
- Conditioning
In terms of inside scoring, Queen is one of the best big men in the draft class in this domain, and can use either hand to finish at the cup with an excellent touch around the rim. It is his go-to scoring option and is the source of a lot of offensive production for the big man.
Despite standing an impressive six-foot-10, Queen has a tight handle, keeping the ball low to the floor and does not give the opposition any time to poke the ball free. He also boasts an impressive change of pace and can take his opponent off the dribble, a rare skill for a center.
On the glass, Queen certainly has a presence, using his solid frame to clear space under the hoop and rarely giving up a board due to his ideal positioning. He looms as a consistent double-double performer at NBA level with his ability to get first hands on the ball.
In terms of improvements, Queen will be certainly looking to add a jumpshot to his repertoire, as it is the trend of frontcourt players in the modern game. If he can become a perimeter threat in addition to the offensive tools he already possesses, he could become one of the best scorers in the league.
DRAFT PROJECTION: Top 10
Queen is one of the best centers in the draft class with his offensive impact, guard-like handle and imposing rebounding. He is certainly worth a punt inside the top 10 and could become one of the best overall players in the crop.
