2025 NBA Draft: Derik Queen Scouting Report
- Jace Derryberry
- Mar 23
- 2 min read
Throughout the 2024-25 season, Babcock Hoops will provide comprehensive scouting reports on top 2025 NBA Draft prospects, analyzing their strengths, questions, and potential at the next level. Our reports offer an in-depth look at each player's development and draft outlook.
Derik Queen
Position:Â Forward/Center
College:Â Maryland
Class:Â Freshman
Height/Weight:Â 6'10", 246 lbs
Birthdate:Â December 27, 2004
High School:Â Montverde Academy (FL)
Player Overview
Derik Queen is a physical big man with strong post skills, excellent footwork, and impressive vision. Known for his passing ability out of the high post and from the low block, Queen stands out as a playmaker among his peers. He has a soft touch with both hands and a knack for quick decision-making, making him a versatile offensive weapon. Defensively, Queen uses his wide frame to contest shots and control the paint, though he can struggle against faster opponents. Improvement in shooting and defensive versatility will be key to his development.
"Derik Queen is a skilled big man, especially in the low post. And his commitment to improving his conditioning is evident, as he’s noticeably trimmed down. This progress, combined with his on-court effectiveness, has his draft stock clearly on the rise." — Matt Babcock, NBA Draft Analyst
Strengths
Post Playmaking:Â Queen excels at finding open teammates from the post, making him a key offensive facilitator.
Physicality & Positioning:Â He battles for positioning inside, using his size and strength effectively.
Footwork:Â His polished footwork allows him to create space and finish with both hands around the rim.
Quick Decisions:Â Queen makes fast reads out of the high post and in dribble hand-offs, adding to his offensive versatility.
Soft Touch:Â His touch around the basket, particularly with short hooks and floaters, enhances his scoring potential.
Concerns
Lack of Vertical Explosiveness: Queen’s limited vertical ability can hinder his rim protection and rebounding.
Developing Three-Point Shot:Â While his touch is promising, his outside shooting is still a work in progress.
Defensive Versatility:Â He can struggle with quicker players, especially in transition defense.
Questions
Impact of Weight Loss:Â How will his new body affect his playstyle and mobility after reportedly losing weight?
Bottom Line
Derik Queen brings a unique blend of physicality, playmaking, and scoring touch. His vision and footwork make him a standout among bigs in the 2025 NBA Draft class. Continued shooting and defensive mobility development will be crucial as he aims to solidify his spot in the draft.