Willis began his professional career with the Grand Rapids Drive in the G-League, where he spent a season. He then ventured abroad, joining Germany's BG Goettingen for his first international experience. After a year, he moved to another German team, Ratiopharm Ulm. Willis continued his basketball journey with stints at Italy's Brindisi in the 2020-21 season, Spain's Joventut Badalona in the 2021-22 season, and Italy's Umana Reyer Venezia in the 2022-23 season.
During his time with Umana Reyer Venezia, Willis donned the Eurocup jersey, showcasing his skills in 19 matches, with an average playing time of 25 minutes and 14 seconds per game. He contributed impressively, averaging 12.9 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.1 assists. In the Italian League, he played 34 games, averaging 24.5 minutes per game and providing an average of 9.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.4 assists.
Now, Derek Willis will embark on a new chapter in his basketball journey as he joins Anadolu Efes Istanbul, adding his talents to the roster of the Turkish team.
