- October 22, 2026
- By Maryland Athletics Staff
Five former Maryland men's basketball players are preparing to make their mark across the NBA as the new season gets under way this week: Derik Queen and Julian Reese (New Orleans Pelicans), Kevin Huerter (Detroit Pistons), Aaron Wiggins (Atlanta Hawks) and Jalen Smith (Chicago Bulls).
Kevin Huerter was traded to the Pistons in February and helped the young team make a postseason run. The former Terp, who was selected 19th overall in the 2018 NBA Draft, has established himself as a versatile guard capable of spacing the floor, creating his own shot and setting up his teammates.
Julian Reese reunites with Queen in New Orleans after signing with the Pelicans in September. The former Maryland forward impressed in limited NBA action with the Washington Wizards last season, averaging 11.8 points and 10.5 rebounds across 13 games. He’s known for his physicality, rebounding and ability to finish around the basket.
Derik Queen enters his second NBA season after an impressive rookie campaign with New Orleans. He was selected 13th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft following his standout freshman season at Maryland. Queen averaged 11.7 points, 7.1 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game with the Pelicans, showcasing an unusual combination of size, scoring ability and playmaking for a young center.
Jalen Smith returns for his third season in Chicago, where he’s developing into a productive frontcourt presence. The 10th overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, he adds versatility to the Bulls’ frontcourt rotation. In an injury-shortened 2025-26 season (53 games), he averaged 10.2 points and 6.7 rebounds.
Aaron Wiggins begins a new chapter in his NBA career following five seasons with the Oklahoma City Thunder. The former Terp, who was traded to Atlanta in the offseason, arrives with valuable championship experience after helping Oklahoma City win the NBA title in 2025. A two-way wing, he can knock down perimeter shots, attack the basket and defend multiple positions.