By ATTS 
Angel Reese Anoints Maryland’s Derik Queen as “Baby Jokic”
WNBA star Angel Reese has declared Maryland’s Derik Queen as the next Nikola Jokic. Reese made the comparison during Maryland’s recent game against Michigan, where Queen’s exceptional performance caught her eye. The freshman center has quickly made his impressive mark on this season, drawing high praise and lofty comparisons.The comparison with Jokic stems that Queen’s height and frame are coupled with exceptional skill that really stands out among his peers.His playing is attracting attention.
Queen, standing at an imposing 6-foot-10, has been a standout performer for Maryland, showcasing a versatile skill set reminiscent of the NBA’s reigning MVP, Nikola Jokic. His impressive stat line, coupled with advanced skills not commonly found in players his size, has quickly earned him the “Baby Jokic” moniker.This isn’t an exaggeration by the WNBAs star. Queen’s solid stats back this claim substantially with about 16 points, nine rebounds, and two assists a game on 53 percent from the field is impressive.
The “Baby Jokic” Comparison: More Than Just Size
It’s not just Queen’s size that draws parallels to Jokic; it’s his remarkable all-around game. His height has given the comparison with some of the great names in the NBA center position and Reese belives she is spot in her assessment.Like “The Joker,” Queen possesses exceptional ball-handling abilities for a big man. He demonstrates remarkable court vision and passing prowess, a trait that sets him apart from many players his size and a characteristic highly valued in the NBA. He can create shots from perimeter as he controls the ball with grace that big men aren’t known for.
One really important feature is that he manages to create an advantage on the court by his use of what is called hostage dribble. It’s a technique that Queen fully utilizes to outwit his opponents. Queen’s head coach, Kevin Willard, even went as far as to suggest that Queen’s draft stock would be significantly higher if he were European, highlighting the unique and undervalued nature of his skills.
Passing Prowess and Court Vision
While Queen’s assist numbers may not fully reflect his playmaking ability, his on-court vision and passing acumen tell a different story. The power to make deliveries on the move in a way that professional NBA teams fully appreciate from their stars. He has an innate ability to find open teammates, both in transition and in the half-court, showcasing a level of court awareness rarely seen in young big men. This is an other aspect that is similar between him and the Baby Jokic. His passing ability expands the ways that he can impact the game, going beyond straight scoring and into creative plays that are unusual for his size.
Recognition from Peers and Professionals
Queen’s talents haven’t gone unnoticed by his peers and opponents. Michigan’s Rubin Jones called him “a good player”, who applies “a lot of pressure”.Michigan guard Rubin Jones acknowledged Queen’s imposing presence and force on the court, while Will Tschetter highlighted his versatility and difficulty to guard. These accolades, coupled with Angel Reese’s endorsement, underscore the high regard in which Queen is held within the basketball community.
Their glowing analysis speaks of Queens well rounded game and his capacity to impact the game even when he isn’t shooting. The recognition he has earned so far is a credit to how difficult an opponent he really.
Future Projections and NBA Potential
While it’s premature to predict whether Queen will reach the heights of a three-time MVP like Jokic, his impressive skill set and rapid development have certainly put him on the NBA radar. His combination of size, skill, and court vision makes him a highly intriguing prospect for NBA teams looking for versatile big men who can impact the game in multiple ways. He is a hot prospect to watch, who may well make his way into the NBA draft. He could be one to watch, particularly should his performances remain consistently good.
The Next Chapter in Maryland’s History
Derik Queen’s emergence as a potential “Baby Jokic” has injected excitement and anticipation into Maryland’s basketball program. His unique blend of size, skill, and basketball IQ has captivated fans and analysts alike, drawing comparisons to one of the NBA’s most dominant players. His rapid rise and impressive performances have made him a player to watch, not just for Maryland fans, but for basketball enthusiasts across the nation.His future is looking promising.
As Queen continues to develop and refine his game, the comparisons to Jokic will likely persist. Whether he can ultimately live up to those lofty expectations remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Derik Queen is a special talent with a bright future, and his journey will be closely followed by many in the basketball world. His development is great to see as it demonstrates growth and continued learning that coaches, fans and peers really appreciate.