Meet Del Willis and Trudy Willis: Parents of Derek Willis
Isabella Floyd
Published May 09, 2026
Del Willis and Trudy Willis are the parents of Derek Willis, an American basketball player born on June 21, 1995.
Real Name
Derek Willis
Date of birth
June 21, 1995
Age
28 years old
Height
206 cm (6 Feet 9 Inches)
Weight
(220 lbs) 99 kg
Birth Place
Louisville, Kentucky, United States
Gender
Male
Education
Kentucky (2013–2017)
Profession
American basketball player
Nationality
American
Zodiac Sign
Gemini
Parents
Trudy Willis, Del Willis
Link
Who is Derek Willis?
Derek Willis is an American basketball player known for his athletic prowess and versatility on the court. Born on June 21, 1995, in Mount Washington, Kentucky, he has risen to prominence in the world of basketball through dedication and hard work. His basketball journey began at Bullitt East High School, where he showcased his talent as a forward, impressing scouts and college recruiters with his scoring ability and defensive skills.
His high school career was marked by impressive statistics and accolades, earning him a scholarship to the University of Kentucky, a powerhouse in collegiate basketball. At the University of Kentucky, Derek Willis continued to evolve as a basketball player, excelling both as a forward and a three-point shooter. He played a pivotal role in the Wildcats’ success during his college years, contributing to deep NCAA Tournament runs and leaving a lasting impact on the program. Willis’s journey didn’t end in college; he pursued a professional career in basketball, playing for various teams in the NBA G League and venturing overseas to compete in leagues abroad.
His commitment to the sport, coupled with his adaptability on the court, has enabled him to continue pursuing his dreams as a professional basketball player. His career is a testament to the value of hard work and versatility in the world of basketball, showcasing the boundless opportunities that the sport offers to those who are dedicated and passionate about the game.
Derek Willis Age
As of now, Derek Willis is 28 years old (born June 21, 1995) in Mount Washington, Kentucky. His age signifies not just the years he’s spent honing his skills but also the bright future that lies ahead. His unwavering determination and commitment to the game are sure to lead him to even greater successes in the world of professional basketball.
Derek Willis Height and Weight
Derek Willis stands tall with a towering height of 206 centimeters, equivalent to 6 feet 9 inches, and maintains a weight of 99 kilograms, approximately 220 pounds. His physical measurements underscore his suitability for the forward position, where agility, scoring ability, and rebounding skills are essential. In the dynamic world of professional basketball, where athleticism is a critical component, Derek Willis’s height and weight position him as a formidable force, capable of making a significant impact on the game.
Derek Willis Nationality
Derek Willis proudly represents the United States as his nationality. Born on June 21, 1995, in Mount Washington, Kentucky, he is an American by birth and citizenship. His American nationality has allowed him to pursue his passion for basketball within the United States and beyond. It has also afforded him the opportunity to represent his nation on various stages, from collegiate basketball to professional leagues.
Derek Willis Career
- College Basketball at the University of Kentucky (2013-2017): Derek Willis played for four seasons at the University of Kentucky, honing his skills and gaining experience at the collegiate level.
- Undrafted in the 2017 NBA Draft: Despite his college career, Derek Willis went undrafted in the 2017 NBA Draft, leading him to explore opportunities in professional basketball outside of the NBA.
- Professional Debut with Grand Rapids (2017): Willis made his professional debut on November 3, 2017, with the Grand Rapids Drive, where he made a significant impact by providing the game-winning tip-in, contributing to his team’s victory over the Erie BayHawks.
- 2017-18 Season with Grand Rapids Drive: He continued his professional journey by signing with the Grand Rapids Drive for the 2017-18 season, where he began to establish himself as a skilled and versatile player.
- Seasons with Various Teams: Over the subsequent years, Derek Willis ventured to different teams, including BG Goettingen (2018-19), Ratiopharm Ulm (2019-20), Brindisi Basket (2020-21), Joventut Badalona (2021-22), and Reyer Venice (2022-23), gaining diverse experiences.
- Anadolu Efes (Turkey) for the 2023-2024 Season: His latest career move takes him to Anadolu Efes in Turkey for the 2023-2024 season, showcasing his ambition to play in international leagues and his growth as a professional basketball player.
- Physical Stats: Derek Willis, with a weight of 104 kilograms (228.8 pounds), possesses a strong and sturdy physique that is an asset in the game. He hails from the United States, where he began his basketball journey and where his passion for the sport was nurtured.
Derek Willis Achievement and Awards
Here are some of Derek Willis notable awards and achievements:
Derek Willis has had a noteworthy career in basketball, with significant achievements and awards, highlighting his talent and contributions to the game:
- 2019-20 EuroCup Round 5 MVP: Willis’s skills on the court were recognized with the EuroCup Round 5 MVP award, a testament to his outstanding performance in European basketball.
- 2022-23 EuroCup Round 7 MVP: He continued to excel in the EuroCup, earning the Round 7 MVP award, underscoring his consistency and impact in the league.
- Member of the US U18 National Team: His involvement with the US U18 National Team showcases his dedication and talent from a young age.
- Member of the US National Team: His association with the US National Team reflects his status as a player of national significance and his contributions to the country’s basketball legacy.
- SEC Tournament Wins with the Wildcats (2015, 2016, 2017): Derek Willis achieved victory in the SEC tournament not once, but three times with the Wildcats, signifying his instrumental role in the team’s success.
- NCAA Final Four Appearance (2015): Willis’s journey with the Wildcats led to an appearance in the NCAA Final Four in 2015, a prestigious achievement in collegiate basketball.
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