Maryland’s women’s basketball team emerged victorious in a tense matchup against Illinois, securing a spot in the Big Ten Tournament quarterfinals. A key moment in the game occurred when guard Shyanne Sellers fouled out with over three minutes to play, which forced her to anxiously watch from the sidelines as her team rallied to a 75-65 comeback victory.
The Terps faced a challenging start to the game, shooting at a mere 22.2% from the field in the first quarter while Illinois surged ahead with a 14-point lead. However, there was a shift in momentum in the second quarter, with Maryland forcing turnovers and limiting Illinois to 31% shooting. This turnaround was further accentuated by impressive performances from Allie Kubek and Bri McDaniel, resulting in a mere two-point deficit for the Terps at halftime.
During the third quarter, Maryland maintained its strong defensive presence and capitalized on offensive opportunities, leading to a pivotal 12-0 run that secured a five-point lead. Despite Illinois’ efforts to close the gap in the final stretch, Maryland’s cohesive team effort prevailed.
Notably, five Terps players achieved double-figure scores, with McDaniel and Sellers showcasing their exceptional speed and control on the court. McDaniel particularly shone with her first career double-double of 20 points and 10 rebounds, while Jakia Brown-Turner and Kubek made significant contributions to the team’s success.
Coach Brenda Frese highlighted the team’s switch to a more aggressive defensive strategy, along with their physicality and ability to capitalize on turnovers and offensive rebounds, as crucial factors in their victory over Illinois.
Looking ahead, Maryland’s exemplary performance has not only secured their spot in the Big Ten Tournament quarterfinals but has also enhanced their prospects for the NCAA Tournament. Coach Frese expressed her confidence in the team’s capability to compete at the NCAA level, emphasizing that this win serves as a testament to their tournament-worthy credentials.
As the Terps gear up to face No. 1-seed Ohio State in their next game, their recent triumph stands as a statement of their determination and resilience, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with in collegiate women’s basketball.