Maryland Terps Shine in NBA Spotlight

Week 10 Recap Highlights Standout Performances from Former College Stars

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:48am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented basketball players and court elements, representing the diverse talents and perspectives of Maryland's NBA alumni.Maryland's former college stars shine in the NBA, showcasing their skills and inspiring the next generation of Terps basketball talent.College Park Today

Maryland's talented alumni are making waves in the NBA, with Derik Queen, Kevin Huerter, Jalen Smith, Aaron Wiggins, Jahmir Young, and Julian Reese all showcasing their skills on the professional stage. From rookie sensation Derik Queen's dominant stats to Jahmir Young's G-League brilliance, these Terps are proving their college toughness translates to elite-level play.

Why it matters

The success of these Maryland products in the NBA not only reflects well on the university's basketball program, but also highlights the pipeline of talent emerging from the state. As fans debate whether Derik Queen is a Rookie of the Year contender, the broader story is how this group of Terps is representing their alma mater and inspiring the next generation of Maryland basketball stars.

The details

Derik Queen is off to an incredible start with the New Orleans Pelicans, posting averages of 13.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists. He leads all rookies in several key categories, including total rebounds, assists, double-doubles, and triple-doubles. Kevin Huerter is contributing 11.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game for the Chicago Bulls, while teammate Jalen Smith is adding 8.7 points and 5.9 rebounds. Aaron Wiggins' three-point shooting (41.1%) has him ranked 33rd in the NBA, and Jahmir Young is excelling in the G-League with the Sioux Falls Skyforce, averaging 22.8 points, 7.7 assists, and 6.0 rebounds.

  • After 10 weeks of the 2025-26 NBA season.
  • Derik Queen had standout games on December 23 and December 27.
  • Kevin Huerter had a strong performance on December 21.
  • Jalen Smith had a productive game on December 26.
  • Aaron Wiggins had an efficient game on December 28.

The players

Derik Queen

A center for the New Orleans Pelicans, Derik Queen is off to an incredible start in his rookie season, leading all first-year players in several key statistical categories.

Kevin Huerter

A guard for the Chicago Bulls, Kevin Huerter is contributing 11.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game in the 2025-26 season.

Jalen Smith

A forward for the Chicago Bulls, Jalen Smith is averaging 8.7 points and 5.9 rebounds per game, showcasing his rebounding prowess.

Aaron Wiggins

A guard for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Aaron Wiggins is impressing with his three-point shooting, ranking 33rd in the NBA with a 41.1% clip from beyond the arc.

Jahmir Young

A guard splitting time between the Miami Heat and the Sioux Falls Skyforce in the G-League, Jahmir Young is averaging 22.8 points, 7.7 assists, and 6.0 rebounds with the Skyforce.

Julian Reese

A forward for the Raptors 905 in the G-League, Julian Reese is contributing 4.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 1.0 assist per game.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

These Terps are not only representing their alma mater but also proving that Maryland toughness translates to elite-level play in the NBA. As fans debate whether Derik Queen is a Rookie of the Year contender, the broader story is how this group of former Maryland stars is inspiring the next generation of basketball talent.