Maryland Terrapins Aim to Improve Road Performance in Pursuit of Big Ten Titles
In Kevin Willard’s debut season as head coach of the Maryland Terrapins, the team showed promise by clinching a spot in the NCAA Tournament and winning a first-round game. However, one aspect stood out as an area ripe for improvement.
Having observed the Big Ten from the outside, Willard held a deep respect for the conference. However, actually experiencing the tough competition firsthand brought new revelations. Maryland struggled to secure victories on the road, highlighting an essential area that needed attention.
Last season, the Terrapins boasted an impressive 16-1 record at home. Yet, they faced a significant setback with a disappointing 2-9 record on the road and a middling 4-3 performance on neutral courts. While a successful home campaign is crucial for winning over fans, if Maryland intends to compete for Big Ten titles, they must find success away from home.
The Terrapins have the advantage of returning three of their top four scorers from the previous season: Jahmir Young, Donta Scott, and Julian Reese. Young, a transfer from Charlotte, had an impressive debut season, averaging 15.8 points per game. Scott, entering his fifth season with Maryland, has an impressive career tally of 1,320 points.
Coach Willard expressed high praise for his team’s performance in practice sessions, emphasizing their competitiveness and physicality. He believes the team now looks more like a Big Ten contender, a significant improvement from the previous season’s challenges.
To enhance their athleticism and physicality, Maryland has added talented transfers to their roster. Jordan Geronimo, a 6-foot-6 player who joins from Indiana, brings valuable experience after three seasons with the Hoosiers. Mady Traore, a 6-foot-11 transfer from New Mexico State, adds size to the team.
Maryland boasts the nation’s 19th-ranked recruiting class, according to 247 Sports. The incoming freshmen, DeShawn Harris-Smith and Jaime Kaiser, both highly regarded four-star recruits, are expected to make significant contributions. Willard lauds Harris-Smith as one of the most talented players he has ever coached, while Kaiser’s background as a former quarterback adds versatility to his skill set.
In terms of the schedule, the Terrapins begin their season with a matchup against state rivals Mount St. Mary’s on November 7. Other nonconference highlights include challenging away games against Villanova and UCLA. Notably, UCLA was the only visiting team to triumph in College Park last season, delivering a resounding 87-60 victory.
As the Terrapins embark on their journey in the Big Ten, refining their road performance will be crucial. With a talented roster, experienced players, and promising newcomers, Maryland aims to compete at a higher level and contend for Big Ten titles. Will their determination and improvements under Coach Willard grant them the success they seek? Only time will tell.
