Image Source: Ryan Alonardo
Key Takeaways
- Maryland men’s basketball remains winless in Big Ten play, falling to 0-6 after a loss to USC
- The Terps’ lack of size and shooting woes continue to hinder their performance
- Diggy Coit had a standout game, scoring 30 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the team’s overall struggles
- Maryland’s next few games will be challenging, with three straight ranked matchups on the schedule
- The Terps were outrebounded by USC, 35-24, and struggled to contain the Trojans’ big men
Introduction to the Game
The Maryland men’s basketball team saw its hopes of securing its first Big Ten win slip away in real time, as they fell to USC 88-71. The Terps’ lack of size and shooting woes were exposed, and they were unable to overcome these weaknesses despite a strong performance from Diggy Coit. As the team’s coach, Buzz Williams, tries to find a way to turn things around, it’s clear that there are several areas that need improvement. As Williams would say, "we need to get better, we need to get more consistent, and we need to find a way to win these close games."
First Half Struggles
The game started off poorly for the Terps, as USC’s size and rebounding ability gave them an early advantage. The Trojans’ leading scorer, Chad Baker-Mazara, did not start the game, but his presence was felt when he entered the contest, scoring seven points in his first eight minutes. Maryland’s coach, Buzz Williams, tried to counter USC’s size by inserting Collin Metcalf and Aleks Alston into the rotation, but it wasn’t enough to stop the Trojans’ interior passing and scoring. As the article states, "USC’s size and defensive role — he acted as a roving five and help defender — deterred the Terps from driving into the lane." Despite these struggles, the Terps were able to seize a lead as the first half dwindled, thanks in large part to Coit’s 19 points.
Second Half Collapse
The second half was a different story, as USC’s energy and momentum carried them to a big win. The Trojans’ Jordan Marsh helped to orchestrate a run, feeding Gabe Dynes for a nice alley-oop finish, and the Terps incurred another second-half scoring drought. As the article notes, "the floodgates soon opened for the Trojans" as they pulled away for the win. Maryland’s lack of size and shooting woes were again exposed, and they were unable to overcome these weaknesses. Coit’s 30 points were not enough to overcome the team’s overall struggles, and the Terps fell to 0-6 in Big Ten play.
Post-Game Analysis
The loss to USC handed Maryland its 10th defeat of the season, a staggering number considering they had only 10 losses all of last year, including the postseason. The Terps’ next few games will be challenging, with three straight ranked matchups on the schedule. As the article states, "it’s worth wondering just how many Big Ten games the Terps could realistically win." The team’s lack of size and shooting woes will need to be addressed if they hope to turn things around and secure some wins in conference play. As Coit said, "we just need to stay focused and keep working, we can’t get discouraged by these losses."
Looking Ahead
The Terps’ next game is against Penn State, which could offer them their most realistic chance at a win. However, beyond that, the schedule gets much tougher, with games against ranked opponents. The team will need to find a way to overcome its weaknesses and come together as a unit if they hope to secure some wins in conference play. As the article notes, "when Coit’s hot from the field, few can stop him, but he’s been extremely inconsistent throughout the season." The Terps will need to find a way to get Coit and other players consistent production if they hope to turn things around.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Maryland men’s basketball team’s loss to USC was a disappointing one, as they fell to 0-6 in Big Ten play. The team’s lack of size and shooting woes continue to hinder their performance, and they will need to find a way to address these weaknesses if they hope to secure some wins in conference play. With a tough schedule ahead, the Terps will need to come together as a unit and find a way to overcome their struggles. As the article states, "the Terps are now a staggering 0-6 in conference play, and it’s worth wondering just how many Big Ten games the Terps could realistically win." Only time will tell if the Terps can turn things around and find success in the Big Ten.
https://www.testudotimes.com/maryland-terps-basketball/87250/maryland-mens-basketball-fizzles-out-against-usc-88-71
