Terps in the Pros: Derik Queen Keeps Making History, Huerter Hits a Buzzer-Beater, and Jahmir Young Dominates the G League
As we wrap up Week 14 of the NBA season, it's a good time to check in on some familiar faces from College Park who are making noise at the next level. From Derik Queen’s historic rookie campaign in New Orleans to Kevin Huerter’s clutch heroics in Chicago, Maryland alums are leaving their mark across the NBA-and beyond.
Derik Queen (New Orleans Pelicans)
Derik Queen is putting together a rookie season that’s turning heads-and not just in New Orleans. The big man is averaging 12.4 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game, but it's the way he's doing it that stands out.
Queen leads all rookies in double-doubles with 10 and currently ranks inside the top 35 in the league in rebounding. That’s elite company for a first-year center.
In the Pelicans’ win over Memphis on January 23, Queen flirted with another double-double, finishing with eight points, nine boards, five assists, and three steals. It was another reminder of his all-around game-he’s not just a force in the paint, he’s a playmaker, too.
And speaking of playmaking, Queen just became the fastest center in the last 50 years to reach 200 career assists. That’s not a typo.
He’s doing things we typically associate with guards, not rookie bigs. The Pelicans knew they were getting a high-IQ player, but he’s already exceeding expectations as a facilitator and defensive presence.
The future’s bright in the Big Easy.
Kevin Huerter (Chicago Bulls)
Kevin Huerter has found his rhythm in Chicago, and his timing couldn’t be better. Now averaging 11.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game, Huerter has been a steady contributor during the Bulls’ recent four-game win streak.
But his biggest moment came under the brightest lights-on the night the Bulls retired Derrick Rose’s jersey, Huerter drilled a buzzer-beating three to lift Chicago over Boston. It was a signature moment in a season that’s seen him step up in clutch situations. He finished that game with 12 points, six rebounds, three assists, and a steal, and capped it off with a tribute to Rose’s iconic celebration.
That shot wasn’t just a game-winner-it was a statement. Huerter’s not just along for the ride in Chicago; he’s helping drive the Bulls’ momentum.
Jalen Smith (Chicago Bulls)
Jalen Smith continues to be a reliable presence in the Bulls’ frontcourt. Averaging 9.8 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.3 assists, Smith is carving out a role as a dependable two-way contributor.
His outing against the Celtics on January 24 marked his 15th game this season with double-digit points and at least six rebounds. That kind of consistency is exactly what Chicago needs from its supporting cast, and Smith is delivering. He’s also climbing the rebounding charts, now ranking 40th league-wide-a testament to his effort and positioning on the glass.
And let’s not overlook the Maryland connection-his on-court chemistry with Huerter is real, and it’s adding another layer to the Bulls’ recent surge.
Aaron Wiggins (Oklahoma City Thunder)
Aaron Wiggins has quietly become one of the most versatile role players in Oklahoma City. Averaging 10.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.7 assists, Wiggins has made the most of his opportunities-especially when he’s in the starting lineup.
In his 11 starts this season, Wiggins is averaging 13.4 points and five rebounds. That includes a strong showing against the Cavaliers, where he posted 12 points, six boards, five steals, three assists, and a block. That’s the kind of stat line that jumps off the page-not just because of the scoring, but because of his impact on both ends of the floor.
Wiggins brings energy, shooting, and defensive tenacity, and he’s proving he can fill a variety of roles for a Thunder team with playoff aspirations.
Jahmir Young (Miami Heat / Sioux Falls Skyforce)
Jahmir Young is absolutely torching the G League right now. The Miami Heat two-way guard is averaging 26.7 points, 9.7 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game for the Sioux Falls Skyforce-and he’s doing it with flair and efficiency.
Currently sitting third in the league in both scoring and assists, Young has rattled off four straight 30-point games. His latest? A 34-point, 10-assist gem against the Santa Cruz Warriors on January 24, where he shot 62% from the field and 57% from deep.
He’s also recorded 10 straight games with at least eight assists, showing off his ability to run the offense while still getting his own shot. If he keeps this up, it’s only a matter of time before the Heat give him a longer look at the NBA level.
Julian Reese (Raptors 905)
Julian Reese continues his development with Raptors 905, Toronto’s G League affiliate. While he didn’t suit up this past week, his next opportunity to take the floor comes Monday night when Raptors 905 face the Osceola Magic.
What’s Next: Upcoming Games to Watch
Here’s where you can catch Maryland’s pros in action this week:
Monday, Jan. 26
- Raptors 905 at Osceola Magic - 7:00 p.m. ET
- Chicago Bulls vs. Los Angeles Lakers - 8:00 p.m.
ET
Tuesday, Jan. 27
- New Orleans Pelicans at Oklahoma City Thunder - 8:00 p.m. ET
Wednesday, Jan. 28
- Raptors 905 at Osceola Magic - 7:00 p.m. ET
- Chicago Bulls at Indiana Pacers - 7:00 p.m. ET
- Miami Heat vs. Orlando Magic - 7:30 p.m.
ET
- Sioux Falls Skyforce at Birmingham Squadron - 8:00 p.m.
ET
Thursday, Jan. 29
- Chicago Bulls vs. Miami Heat - 8:00 p.m.
ET
- Oklahoma City Thunder at Minnesota Timberwolves - 9:30 p.m.
ET
Friday, Jan. 30
- New Orleans Pelicans vs. Memphis Grizzlies - 7:30 p.m.
ET
Saturday, Jan. 31
- New Orleans Pelicans at Philadelphia 76ers - 7:30 p.m. ET
- Chicago Bulls at Miami Heat - 8:00 p.m. ET
- Sioux Falls Skyforce at Texas Legends - 8:30 p.m. ET
Sunday, Feb. 1
- Chicago Bulls at Miami Heat - 6:00 p.m. ET
- Oklahoma City Thunder at Denver Nuggets - 9:30 p.m. ET
From rising stars to established vets, Maryland’s NBA pipeline is thriving. Whether it’s Queen’s historic rookie run, Huerter’s clutch gene, or Young’s G League takeover, the Terps are making sure their presence is felt across the pro ranks.