First-rounder Derik Queen wastes no time updating LinkedIn profile after NBA Draft
Most people's LinkedIn profiles are pretty similar: some internships here, jobs and experience there. But for Derik Queen, a new entry has just been added: NBA player.
The former five-star recruit who just finished an impressive year at Maryland was drafted No. 13 overall in the 2025 NBA Draft on Wednesday, June 25 landing with the New Orleans Pelicans.
Queen, who earned first-team All-Big Ten and Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors during his first and only year at Maryland, wasted little time updating his LinkedIn profile to reflect his new job position.
"I'm happy to share that I'm starting a new position as a Professional Basketball Player at New Orleans Pelicans," Queen wrote. "Can't wait to touch down in New Orleans and meet the fans!"
His acquisition by the Pelicans came after a draft-night deal with the Atlanta Hawks, who got No. 23 pick Asa Newell and an unprotected 2026 first-round pick.
The 6-foot-10, 246-pound center played all 36 games for the Terps last season, almost averaging a double-double. He'll be fondly remembered in Maryland for his buzzer-beater against Colorado State in the second round of this year's NCAA Tournament.
Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach him at fernando.cervantes@gannett.com and follow him on X @fern_cerv_.
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