Derik Queen Responds to Maryland Players Entering Transfer Portal After Willard Exit

Don't assume just yet that Maryland freshman Derik Queen is leaving for greener pastures.

The Terrapins are set to lose a lot of players on the heels of their Sweet 16 run and the exit of head coach Kevin Willard. Responding to a post on X about the exodus, Queen noted he's not part of that group:

This could be a difference without a distinction, though.

Earlier this week, Queen cited Maryland's uncertain coaching situation and said he hadn't decided on his status for the 2025-26 season. Although the school confirmed Tuesday that Buzz Williams is its new head coach, it could have little effect on whether the Terps retain their best player.

Queen is widely considered a potential lottery pick in the 2025 NBA draft, and Bleacher Report's Jonathan Wasserman projected him to go fifth overall. Players typically don't resist the NBA overtures when they rank so highly on draft boards.

As a native of Baltimore, Queen could feel a special pull to Maryland. He may savor the opportunity to take the Terps further in the NCAA tournament.

The standout big man can count on getting plenty of NIL money, too, which would help make up for the NBA salary he'd be forgoing. After he averaged 16.5 points and 9.0 rebounds in his first season, Queen would be one of college basketball's biggest stars as a sophomore, and that means more endorsements.

Alas, it's difficult to picture him sticking around when his draft stock is what it is. Queen may not use the transfer portal, but he figures to find one door leading him away from College Park.