Maryland's NBA Stars Shine Bright, But Who's the Real MVP?
Week 12 of the NBA season is in the books, and University of Maryland alumni are making their mark across the league. From dominating rookies to seasoned veterans, these Terps are proving their mettle on the hardwood. But here's where it gets controversial: who's truly carrying the Terp legacy in the pros?
Derik Queen (New Orleans Pelicans) is turning heads as one of the most consistent rookies in his class. Averaging 12.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.3 assists, Queen isn't just a scorer—he's a playmaker. His shooting percentage ranks him among the NBA's top 50, and his rebounding places him in the top 35. But the real showstopper? His second career triple-double on January 9th against the Wizards, where he dropped 14 points, 16 rebounds, and 12 assists in his return to the DMV. With 8 double-doubles, Queen leads all rookies. Is he the future face of the Pelicans? Many believe so.
Kevin Huerter (Chicago Bulls) continues to be a reliable bench player, averaging 11.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists while shooting 46% from the field. His efficiency was on full display in a win over the Mavericks on January 10th, where he contributed 13 points, 6 assists, 3 rebounds, and 3 steals. Huerter's ability to impact the game in multiple ways makes him a valuable asset, but is he being underutilized in Chicago? Some fans think he deserves more minutes.
Jalen Smith (Chicago Bulls) is holding his own, averaging 9.0 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.3 assists. His rebounding prowess keeps him in the top 55 league-wide, and he notched another double-double against the Mavericks with 11 points and 10 rebounds. While Smith's numbers are solid, is he reaching his full potential? Critics argue he could be more dominant.
Aaron Wiggins (Oklahoma City Thunder) is shooting 45% from the field and averaging 10.4 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.7 assists. His standout performance came on January 9th against the Grizzlies, where he scored 16 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. Wiggins is a steady contributor, but does he have the ceiling to become a star? Only time will tell.
Jahmir Young (Miami Heat/Sioux Falls Skyforce) is tearing up the G League, averaging 24.8 points, 9.2 assists, and 5.0 rebounds for the Sioux Falls Skyforce. His offensive prowess has him ranked in the top 10 for scoring and top 5 for assists. On January 9th, he dropped 27 points and 12 assists against the Rip City Remix, marking his fifth consecutive game with 24 or more points. Young is undeniably a force, but will he get his shot in the NBA? And this is the part most people miss: his G League dominance could soon translate to a call-up.
Julian Reese (Raptors 905) is averaging 5.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 0.8 assists. He contributed to a win against the Noblesville Boom on January 8th with 9 points and 8 rebounds. While Reese's stats are modest, he's showing potential as a developmental player. Is he the next Terp to break out?
Upcoming Schedule:
- Tuesday, Jan. 13: Miami Heat vs Phoenix Suns (7:30 p.m. ET), New Orleans Pelicans vs Denver Nuggets (8:00 p.m. ET), Chicago Bulls at Houston Rockets (8:00 p.m. ET), Oklahoma City Thunder vs San Antonio Spurs (8:00 p.m. ET), Sioux Falls Skyforce at Memphis Hustle (8:00 p.m. ET), Raptors 905 at Birmingham Squadron (8:00 p.m. ET)
- Wednesday, Jan. 14: New Orleans Pelicans vs Brooklyn Nets (8:00 p.m. ET), Chicago Bulls vs Utah Jazz (8:00 p.m. ET)
- Thursday, Jan. 15: Raptors 905 at Capital City Go-Go (7:00 p.m. ET), Oklahoma City Thunder at Houston Rockets (7:30 p.m. ET), Miami Heat vs Boston Celtics (7:30 p.m. ET)
- Friday, Jan. 16: New Orleans Pelicans at Indiana Pacers (7:00 p.m. ET), Chicago Bulls at Brooklyn Nets (7:30 p.m. ET)
- Saturday, Jan. 17: Raptors 905 at Capital City Go-Go (7:00 p.m. ET), Sioux Falls Skyforce vs Salt Lake City Stars (8:00 p.m. ET), Oklahoma City Thunder at Miami Heat (8:00 p.m. ET)
- Sunday, Jan. 18: Sioux Falls Skyforce vs Long Island Nets (7:30 p.m. ET), New Orleans Pelicans at Houston Rockets (7:00 p.m. ET), Chicago Bulls vs Brooklyn Nets (7:00 p.m. ET)
Players Mentioned:
- Julian Reese: 6'9" Senior, Forward
- Derik Queen: 6'10" Freshman, Center
Controversial Question: Who do you think is the most impactful Terp in the NBA right now? Is it the rookie sensation Derik Queen, the consistent Kevin Huerter, or someone else entirely? Let us know in the comments—we want to hear your take!
