Two of the biggest pre-draft milestones—March Madness and the NBA Draft Combine—are officially in the books.
With less than a month to go until draft day, one of March Madness’ breakout stars is drawing comparisons to Houston Rockets All-Star center Alperen Şengün.
Derik Queen Draws Comparison with Rockets’ All-Star Ahead of 2025 NBA Draft
Derik Queen’s draft stock has steadily risen throughout the pre-draft process, and the Maryland big man now looks like a clear lottery pick. At 6’10” and 246 pounds, he brings an NBA-ready frame, advanced ball-handling for his position, and a soft touch around the rim.
Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman projects Queen to go No. 13 overall to the Atlanta Hawks, naming Alperen Şengün as his most fitting pro comparison.
“Scouts who thought highly of Derik Queen before the NCAA tournament should only feel more confident after Maryland’s Sweet 16 exit,” wrote Wasserman. “His three three-point makes and 27-point game against No. 1 seed Florida could have only helped turn some of the skeptics.
“Queen’s skill level, scoring versatility, and passing IQ have been strong enough indicators of offensive success that certain teams will be willing to look past his defensive limitations.”
Alperen Şengün was selected 16th overall by the Rockets in the 2021 NBA Draft and has been a steady contributor throughout his four seasons in the league.
Like Şengün, Queen is a skilled big man with strong passing ability, polished post scoring, and some defensive limitations. Still, it’s fair to say the Turkish center may not represent Queen’s ultimate ceiling.
Derik Queen grabbing a board, taking the ball up the floor and attacking a mismatch with smitty half spin at 6'10-6'11. Absurd skill level on this guy, this skillset at this size does not come around too often. pic.twitter.com/jar6QAC8Z3
— Abdel (@abdel_taco)
Queen’s interior defense is a concern, but his offense is ready to go, which is why PFSN’s Brandon Austin predicted the Toronto Raptors would select him ninth overall.
“Derik Queen checks a lot of boxes for a Toronto Raptors team that needs to add more skilled and versatile talent to its frontcourt,” wrote Austin. “He’s one of the most polished big men in this class, blending strength and finesse with a uniquely high basketball IQ. While Queen isn’t the most explosive athlete, his game is built around touch, timing, and feel.
“At 6’9″ and nearly 250 pounds, Queen plays with force on the block but complements his power with exceptional footwork, soft hands, and a reliable scoring touch around the rim. He’s a legitimate low-post technician who can manufacture space and get creative with his finishes. What separates Queen from many traditional big men is his vision and passing feel. He’s one of the best playmaking bigs in this draft.
“Queen offers Toronto a rare blend of post scoring, passing, and toughness — skills that could complement their core of Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett, and Gradey Dick while adding a new dynamic to their offense.”
Queen averaged 16.5 points and 9.0 rebounds per game, shooting 56% on 2-point field goal attempts as a freshman this past season. His jumper showed signs of improvement down the stretch, and his mobility means that he shouldn’t be a total liability on defense either.
