Just over a week away from the March 9 premiere of Dancing with the Stars, Derek Hough has a message:

Look out for Lil Kim!

In a recent blog entry, Hough, who earned last season’s mirror-ball trophy with partner Brooke Burke, showered his latest teammate with praise.

I’m in New York City at the moment, training up my new partner for this season of DWTS, none other than the wonderful Lil Kim. I’m happy to say that she has surpassed my expectations so far and I think she will surprise a lot of people... She is so unbelievably nice and intuitive. She has been a great student.

How far do you think Lil Kim and Derek Hough will advance on Dancing with the Stars?

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.