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Derik Queen’s Unique Game Poised for First-Round Selection

Subpar combine results have done little to dent optimism about his low-block vision paired with old-school paint footwork.

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Derik Queen arrives for the first round of the NBA basketball draft, Wednesday, June 25, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

Overview

  • Queen became the sixth college freshman since 1980 to average 15 points, eight rebounds and 1.9 assists while shooting 50 percent from the field.
  • His footwork in the paint recalls traditional big men and his passing vision from the low block evokes modern forward play.
  • He posted the slowest lane agility drill time and a 28-inch vertical at this year’s NBA combine, fueling doubts about his athletic upside.
  • NBA mock drafts predict he will be taken between eighth and fifteenth overall, underlining his polarizing draft range.
  • The Portland Trail Blazers and New Orleans Pelicans are cited as ideal landing spots to maximize his development if he is selected in the first round.