Following the New Orleans Pelicans’ 126-111 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers, veteran center DeAndre Jordan was conducting a post-game interview.
Enter Derik Queen, the Pelicans’ rookie, with what he apparently intended as a lighthearted surprise greeting.
“So how does it feel not playing since November, and getting us a win tonight? Welcome back, old a nia.”
Queen was trying to acknowledge Jordan’s rare appearance and solid performance: 32 minutes, six points, 15 rebounds, and four blocks.
The NBA has a long history of fining players for inappropriate language. Jimmy Butler has been penalized. Jalen Green received a $25,000 fine in December 2024 for dropping an F-bomb.
Queen’s remark wasn’t just inappropriate it was the kind of word that gets players suspended, fined heavily, and dragged across every social media platform.
As of now, the NBA has not announced any disciplinary action. Jordan hasn’t commented. Queen hasn’t apologized publicly.
Derik Queen meant to celebrate his veteran teammate. Instead, he created a viral moment for all the wrong reasons.
The NBA’s checkbook is likely coming for him. And “old a** ni**a” is going to cost a lot more than he probably has in his rookie bank account.