Derik Queen quickly translated his high school dominance to the college stage, anchoring Maryland as a freshman with 16.5 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game. His reliable inside scoring, rebounding, and defensive presence earned him Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors and helped the Terps reach their first Sweet Sixteen since 2016. Queen posted 15 double-doubles and delivered several clutch performances in the postseason.
At 6’10”, forward Asa Newell combined length, athleticism, and a smooth skill set that made him a matchup nightmare. Whether handling the ball on the break, stepping out to knock down mid‑range jumpers, or switching onto guards defensively, Newell’s versatility gave Montverde a tactical edge against elite opponents.
Sharpshooter Liam McNeeley stands 6’8″ while playing for Texas as Montverde’s primary shooter outside the paint. Liam McNeeley’s swift release, combined with his smart basketball innovative thinking, forced defenders to double down while giving his teammates space for drives and open shots. Liam proved to be the coaches’ first choice in tight games because he delivered the crucial point-scoring shots.
Standing six feet, Robert Wright III orchestrated Montverde’s attack with poise and unselfishness. His court vision and timely ball distribution created high‑percentage looks for stars like Flagg and Queen, while his steady decision‑making minimized turnovers and controlled the game’s tempo.
Memphis native Curtis Givens brought toughness and tenacity to the backcourt, using his strength to finish through contact and quick hands to generate steals. His improvement as a three‑point shooter added a valuable scoring dimension, making him a constant threat on both ends of the floor.
Ace Flagg served as Cooper’s fraternal twin brother at point guard while also playing forward at 6’8″ during varsity games. Ace Flagg delivered motor-driven defensive skills and effective cutting movements, adding vital depth and intensity to Montverde’s team.
