Dereck Lively II

Dereck Lively II, born on February 12, 2004, in Philadelphia, PA, is a professional basketball player who currently serves as a center for the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA. Standing 7 feet 1 inch tall and weighing 230 pounds, Lively was a first-round draft pick, selected 12th overall in 2023. Before entering the NBA, Lively honed his skills at Duke University, where he developed a reputation for his defensive prowess and shot-blocking ability. His college career paved the way for his entry into the professional league, where he debuted in the 2023 season. In his NBA career, Lively has shown solid performance metrics, including notable defensive skills with an average of 1.57 blocks per game in the 2025 regular season. Offensively, he has maintained a field goal percentage of 61.1%, reflecting his efficiency in scoring attempts. His ability to contribute on the boards is evident from his average of 5.29 rebounds per game. Lively's playing style is characterized by his defensive skills, particularly his blocking and rebounding capabilities, which have made him a valuable asset to his team. Despite facing a foot injury in the 2025 season, which sidelined him for a brief period, Lively has continued to be active and contribute to his team's efforts on the court. As a young player with significant potential, Dereck Lively II remains a promising talent in the NBA, known for his contributions both in defense and as a reliable center.