Maryland men’s basketball returned to College Park this week, sharing practice photos on social media with the caption, “We’re back on the court in College Park.”
The Terps came back after a long summer break with a refreshed roster and renewed focus under coach Kevin Willard. Maryland added four transfers: guards Ja’Kobi Gillespie and Rodney Rice, wing Selton Miguel, and forward Tafara Gapare. The standout addition, however, is freshman five-star forward Derik Queen, one of Maryland’s highest-rated recruits in program history.
Queen and forward Julian Reese are expected to form one of the most dynamic frontcourts in the Big Ten, pushing each other to improve. A photo of the pair was posted on the Terps’ Twitter page with the caption “two of Baltimore’s finest,” highlighting Reese’s visibly enhanced physical condition after a productive offseason. Maryland also recently unveiled a billboard featuring the duo in their native Baltimore.
National experts have varying opinions on Maryland’s prospects. John Fanta of Fox Sports ranked the Terps at No. 24 in the country, while ESPN listed them as the second-best team outside their top 25.
Former Maryland assistant coach Mike Jones praised Willard’s work ethic, saying, “Kevin Willard would be at the office most days before the sun came up, and would work all day long.”
However, some publications did not include Maryland due to concerns over unproven talent on the wing and shooting deficiencies that could limit their potential.
Maryland’s schedule is designed to bolster their resume. In the Big Ten, they have home-and-home series with Nebraska, Northwestern, and Ohio State, and face tough home games against Iowa, Minnesota, Michigan State, Rutgers, Wisconsin, and newcomers UCLA and USC.
Their non-conference slate includes games against Villanova and Marquette, with Marquette being a top NCAA tournament seed last season.
For Maryland to have a successful season, they’ll need a stronger start than last year, when losses to Davidson and UAB set the tone for a disappointing season. Guard play, especially from Gillespie and DeShawn Harris-Smith, will be crucial. Harris-Smith struggled last season but is expected to improve, particularly in three-point shooting, which is a priority for Willard.
Bench options like Miguel and Rice should provide depth and improve Maryland’s shooting capabilities. With the departure of Zach Edey from Purdue, the Big Ten appears open, providing an opportunity for Maryland to make a significant impact.
