Maryland came out gunning last night in it’s second road game of ACC play and received a little support from an unlikely source – the fans. The crowd, with 5 minutes left in game, began to chant “Lets Go Maryland” as Maryland rolled 73 – 57. Great guard play from Greivis 17pts/9assts/4brds and Cliff Tucker 14pts fueled the effort before a pro Maryland crowd.
The Terps have been shooting the ball very well as of late finishing this game at a 49% clip from the field, including 58% from 3 range. That’s phenomenal for this team and something Gary really hasn’t had in past years. What makes yesterdays effort even more impressive was that they missed a few easy layups that could’ve pushed their percentage into the 50’s. Greivis had his normal array of lofty shots and drives to the basket, but he looked more to pass which helped him to 9 assists. Vasquez could regularly meet this mark if he looks to pass instead of shooting every time he gets the ball. He’s a great player, with tons of potential, but this team as a whole plays a ton better when they distribute and it begins with Vasquez. The Terps also have taken care of the ball this year and yesterday personified that with only 9 turnovers.
Defensively, the Terps smothered the Eagles and forced them into bad passes and quick shots. They virtually had nothing in the paint as Williams and Gregory were a force down low. BC out rebounded Maryland, but they were mostly away from the basket and they couldn’t do anything with them. Maryland, even with their size is still having trouble rebounding the ball. Good teams down the road could hurt the Terps with this advantage. Maryland’s pressure defense was excellent as they pushed BC into consistent turnovers.
Maryland now gets a little breather hosting Longwood on Tuesday night before resuming their ACC schedule next Saturday (1/23). This season has been shaping up pretty well for the Terps and with the parity in the ACC, they could come out a lot better than most predicted. They need to play the games though and if this Maryland team can get ahead in the rebounding effort and defend the three much better, they’ll reach 20 wins with no problem.
Why do I feel like this is going to be one roller coaster conference schedule?
Isn't it always a rollercoaster conference schedule with the Terps?
If by rollercoaster you mean some tough losses mixed in with good wins, then yes it will be a rollercoaster. But most teams in good leagues go threw ups and downs in their conference schedule. Like Clark said the ACC is a bit watered down this year and the Terps have a good shot at finishing in the top 5 in the league. They are a senior led team that has played well in all 3 of their league games so far. I expect them to be pretty steady because of the veterans on the team, who have been through this before.
Jeff, that's exactly what I mean. It's seems to always be that way in the ACC.
Gary + Williams = rollercoaster. I love Gary, but it wouldn't be a normal season if they just blew teams away. Not even blew them away, just win without biting your nails watching them.