New Orleans Pelicans rookie center Derik Queen was among those on hand as the Baltimore Ravens hosted the Detroit Lions on Monday Night Football.
Queen, born in Baltimore, was pictured on the sideline with Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony, who also grew up in the city. He was honored before the game on the video board and received a warm ovation from fans in attendance at M&T Bank Stadium.
The two forged a friendship several years ago after Anthony hosted Queen for a workout in New York City. They had the opportunity to link up together again at the marquee Week 3 matchup between two playoff teams from a season ago.
Queen was the Big Ten Freshman of the Year last season at Maryland, averaging 16.5 points, nine rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.1 steals and 1.1 blocks. He was also named to the All-Big Ten first team, helping the Terrapins to their first Sweet 16 appearance since 2016.
The 20-year-old logged three appearances with the Pelicans in the NBA Summer League, averaging 14 points, 11 rebounds, 2.3 assists and one block. He registered a double-double in each appearance, including a 17-point, 10-rebound effort against Portland on July 15.
Queen will be sidelined when the Pelicans open training camp this week after undergoing offseason wrist surgery. The team was fortunate to select him with the 13th pick and will be hopeful that he can get on the court without restrictions as soon as possible.