What Maryland's Derik Queen Taught Us About Gen Z Athletes

Derik Queen's recent buzzer-beater, propelling the Maryland Terrapins into the Sweet 16, serves as a prime example of how Gen Z athletes are redefining the game and why you, as a coach, should care.

With just 3.7 seconds remaining and trailing by one point, Kevin Willard’s timeout was critical.  According to reports, Coach asked his guys “Who wants the ball?” In a pivotal moment, freshman center Derik Queen declares “I want the MF ball.”  He goes on to save the day and Maryland lives to see another tournament game!

Gen Z Traits on Display

What all took place in a span of five real time minutes offers a lens into the characteristics that define Gen Z athletes:

• Confidence and Self-Advocacy: Gen Z does not hesitate to voice their desires and take initiative.  Those who have built personal brands may even crave the spotlight.

• Desire for Immediate Impact: Gen Z has grown up in an “Instant” culture. They are simply not interested in waiting their turn. They expect playing time and to have the ball in big moments.

• Purpose Driven:  Queen is from Baltimore and chose to stay home to attend Maryland. His mission is assumedly around legacy, community and growth. When Gen Z athletes understand that their work goes beyond just winning games, they excel.

  
  

Coaching Strategies and Team Dynamics that Elevate Gen Z Athletes:

• Open Communication and Empowerment: Shift from command to collaboration. Gen Z athletes want to have a voice in decision-making. Encourage autonomy by teaching them how to make reads as opposed to just running plays. Give constructive two-way feedback and allow them to aid in solutions.

• Visibility: Gen Z wants to be seen, heard and valued.  Assign every player a role and acknowledge when players are operating in their strengths. The days of only having captains as defined roles are over.  When roles are clearly stated, teammates will have a better understanding and will hold each other accountable to them. Greater confidence in individuals makes for a more confident collective. Recognize everyone’s wins, big and small.

• Trust: Queen wanted the ball, he got the ball! I assume most coaches would have hesitated to put the ball in a freshmen’s hands to determine one’s NCAA tourney fate. Trust can sometimes be blind faith! No one in that huddle openly questioned his ability in crunch time. When players are confident and they believe that others believe in them too, they excel.

Gen Z athletes are fearless and capable when they feel empowered and valued.  Understanding and embracing Gen Z’s unique attributes will elevate your coaching strategies and lead to greater levels of performance.