Baltimore-born rookie Derik Queen linked with Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony during a high-profile Ravens-Lions Monday Night Football night, a scene underscoring his cross-sport ties and potential hush-hush mentorship path. Queen, Maryland product and 13th pick of New Orleans, celebrated his hometown moment on the video board, while Anthony’s NYC workout history with him hints at a faster development arc. Queen’s Summer League flirtations with the Pelicans demonstrated ceiling via double-doubles, but a wrist surgery now sidelines him as camp approaches, keeping his timeline murky for a pro debut.

Carmelo Anthony’s Hall of Fame induction caps a remarkable arc from Baltimore playgrounds to global stardom, underscored by a lifelong commitment to his hometown. The House of Melo at the Enoch Pratt Library highlights his career while spotlighting outreach efforts and mentorship that keep him tethered to Murphy Homes and West Baltimore. The story weaves in Anthony’s Syracuse glory, six NBA stops, Olympic golds, and a post-basketball mission that prioritizes opportunity and culture over the spotlight.

Beyond the accolades, Anthony’s Baltimore imprint unfolds through Team Melo, AAU work, and a network of mentors who helped him along the way. Trusted figures from Dunbar and St. Frances shaped his rise, then helped him pay it forward to a new generation, including Derik Queen, a Pelicans rookie, who benefited from Anthony’s guidance and access. The exhibit and workshops aim to translate athletic talent into lasting community impact, echoing a boyhood credo: success is best measured by what you give back.

As the Pratt exhibit runs through December, the hall-of-fame aura blends with hands-on sessions that bring agents, writers, and designers to Baltimore’s youth. The piece paints a portrait of a star who never left the city that raised him, choosing to lift others as he climbs. The narrative threads Melo’s elite basketball craft with a public-life blueprint, making the Baltimore story feel both celebratory and instructive for future hoops aspirants.

Derik Queen's promising start with the New Orleans Pelicans has taken a severe hit due to a wrist injury sustained during a Summer League game against the Portland Trail Blazers. The 20-year-old center, drafted 13th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft, was diagnosed with a torn scapholunate ligament in his left wrist. Following successful surgery, he faces a recovery period that could extend into the start of the 2025-26 NBA season, set to begin on October 21.

Fans have expressed their frustration, referencing the Pelicans' injury woes, including the high-profile injury of Zion Williamson during his rookie season. The recurring theme of injuries has led some to label the franchise as 'cursed,' questioning whether the trend will continue with Queen. His college stats indicated potential, having been named Big Ten Freshman of the Year, making this setback particularly disappointing for both the franchise and Queen's fantasy prospects.

The New Orleans Pelicans have announced that their first-round pick, Derik Queen, underwent surgery to repair a torn scapholunate ligament in his left wrist. The injury, sustained during a game against the Portland Trail Blazers, will sideline him as he is set to be re-evaluated in 12 weeks. This timeline coincides closely with the start of training camp and the preseason, raising concerns about his readiness for the upcoming season.

Selected 13th overall from Maryland, Queen was seen as a significant investment, especially after the Pelicans traded up from the 23rd pick, sacrificing an unprotected 2026 first-round draft pick in the process. He showed promise in the Las Vegas Summer League, averaging 14 points, 11 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. However, his performance was marred by turnovers, particularly in his debut, where he recorded seven turnovers.

New Orleans Pelicans rookie Derik Queen recorded impressive double-doubles in all three Summer League games, showcasing his skills with an average of 14 points and 11 rebounds. However, his momentum was halted by a left wrist injury requiring surgery, which he suffered on July 15 against the Trail Blazers. The Pelicans announced he will be reevaluated in about three months, putting his potential return for the October 21 season opener in jeopardy.

Queen’s promising start included shooting 43.8% from the field and 50% from three-point range. The former Maryland standout had previously earned Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors, leading his team to a Sweet 16 appearance. His unique skill set as a 6-foot-10 forward, adept at dribbling and passing, has made him a key component for the Pelicans, particularly alongside star Zion Williamson. As the team navigates Queen’s recovery, expectations remain high for his rookie season.