"Two-Way Terror: Fast Break Finishes, Relentless Defense, and a Floor General’s Mindset"

Derrick Melton, II

@DerrickMelton16

IG: @derrick.melton.12

6’2”, 160lbs, Class of 2027

Westminster Christian School, MO

Derrick is a dynamic guard with a nonstop motor, high-level instincts, and the kind of fire that flips games in an instant. A natural leader and two-way threat, he brings intensity to every possession, locking up on defense, forcing turnovers, and turning stops into instant offense. His long frame, quick first step, and strong understanding of pace make him a matchup nightmare. Whether he’s blowing by defenders, finishing through contact, or pulling up for a smooth middy or transition three, Derrick makes things happen. He plays with poise, confidence, and an elite work ethic that separates him from the pack.

He averaged 11 points, 6 assists, and 7 rebounds this past season, stuffing the stat sheet as a do-it-all guard who made plays all over the floor. But the biggest improvement came in how he approached the game, learning how to win close battles, make smart decisions under pressure, and elevate his team with energy and communication. His shot improved, his leadership elevated, and he started picking his spots with maturity and confidence. On top of that, his coach trusted him to guard the best offensive player on the floor, regardless of position, and he embraced the challenge every time.

This offseason, Derrick has locked in on becoming even stronger with the ball, finishing with more control, and expanding his point guard instincts. He’s also working hard in the weight room and studying defensive schemes to raise his awareness on both ends. On the AAU circuit with Mavericks Elite 16U, he showed why he's a nightmare in transition, racking up back-to-back buckets, firing up teammates, and making his presence felt every trip down. His goal was to keep improving month after month, help his teammates get noticed, and prove his value through consistency, mission accomplished.

Offensively, Derrick is a slasher with a bag. He thrives in the open floor, punishes defenders who sag with a confident jumper, and keeps defenses honest with an underrated midrange game. He’s unselfish, under control, and always focused on making the right play. Defensively, he’s a disruptor, pressuring ball handlers, baiting passes, and setting the tone with relentless energy. His ability to shift momentum through pure effort, whether it’s a steal, deflection, or transition bucket, is what makes him such a weapon.

Next season, Derrick’s focused on leading his team to a state title. He plays for more than just stats, he competes for respect, for growth, and for the love of the game. He handles adversity by staying focused, learning from it, and moving forward with confidence. And through it all, he keeps God first and lives by the belief that if you outwork your competition and do the things others avoid, you’ll win in more ways than one.

Off the court, Derrick enjoys spending time with family, playing video games, diving into photography, and watching movies. But make no mistake, this is a player pursuing a college opportunity, and doing it the right way.

I assess that Derrick’s energy, two-way skill set, and leadership make him a high-value guard at the next level. He defends multiple positions, creates off the bounce, and delivers when it matters. His maturity, IQ, and versatility fit seamlessly into any system, and his ability to shift momentum through effort and toughness gives him a clear college ceiling.

With continued development in strength, quickness, and point guard decision-making, Derrick is poised for a breakout year. His combination of size, motor, and skill will draw serious looks as he leads Westminster toward a deep playoff run. Expect him to be one of the toughest guards to deal with in Missouri, on both ends of the court. Stay tuned.