The Terps are looking for a rebound season in 2024-2025.
Men’s basketball has resumed activities in College Park this week, as evidenced by practice photos shared on social media with the caption, “We’re back on the court in College Park.”
The Terps returned from a prolonged summer break with a revamped roster and a fresh direction under coach Kevin Willard. Maryland made significant additions through four transfers: guards Ja’Kobi Gillespie and Rodney Rice, wing Selton Miguel, and forward Tafara Gapare. However, the standout addition appears to be freshman five-star forward Derik Queen, who marks one of the program’s highest-rated recruits in history.
Queen, alongside forward Julian Reese, is poised to create one of the most formidable frontcourts in the Big Ten, enhancing each other’s skills. A photo showcasing this pairing was shared on the Terps’ Twitter page with the caption “two of Baltimore’s finest.” Reese, reportedly spending extensive offseason hours in the gym, notably displayed enhanced physical conditioning. Additionally, Maryland recently unveiled a billboard featuring the duo in their hometown of Baltimore.
Experts across the nation have varying opinions on Maryland’s outlook for the upcoming season. John Fanta from Fox Sports has placed the Terps at No. 24 in his national rankings. Meanwhile, ESPN identified Kevin Willard’s team as the second-best squad not included in their top 25 rankings.
Former Maryland assistant coach Mike Jones recently provided insight into Willard’s work ethic and dedication. “Kevin Willard would be at the office most days before the sun came up, and would work all day long. Guy wants to get up shots, Kevin Willard is in the gym with him,” Jones remarked in a recent interview.
“Guy wants to watch film, Kevin Willard’s in his office with him. Like, I don’t know of a coach that works as long and as hard as he does, and being able to absorb that for the last year was truly amazing. He’s a fanatic, in the best sense of the word.”
Some other publications didn’t include Maryland. A lack of proven talent on the wing and a dearth of shooting potentially limits the Terps ceiling.
Maryland’s schedule lends itself to resume-building
