New Orleans Pelicans rookie Derik Queen returned to College Park on Saturday as Maryland hosted FAU to kick off its 2025 football season at SECU Stadium.
Queen was the Big Ten Freshman of the Year last season, averaging 16.5 points, nine rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.1 steals and 1.1 blocks on 52.6% shooting from the field. He was also named to the All-Big Ten first team, helping the Terrapins to their first Sweet 16 appearance since 2016.
The 13th pick was presented with both awards by athletic director Jim Smith and was honored in front of an announced attendance of 35,067 during a timeout. He also had the chance to watch his cousin, Sidney Stewart, record a sack for a safety in the second quarter.
Queen debuted with the Pelicans in the NBA Summer League, averaging 14 points, 11 rebounds, 2.3 assists and one block in three appearances. He registered a double-double in each appearance, including a 17-point, 10-rebound effort against Portland on July 15.
The 20-year-old underwent surgery on July 18 to address a torn ligament in his left wrist sustained against the Trail Blazers. He is still wearing a cast on his wrist and is expected to be sidelined for at least another six weeks, putting his status for the start of the season in question.
Queen will now look ahead after receiving his awards from last season. The team was excited to add Queen through the draft and will be eager to see him take the court.