The University of Maryland is set to welcome another basketball prodigy with strong roots in the NBA lineage. Nicholas Blake, son of former NBA guard Steve Blake, has chosen to attend his father's alma mater, creating waves in the college basketball scene. This decision marks an exciting chapter as Nicholas steps into the shoes of his father, who left a significant mark at the university from 1999-2002 before embarking on a 13-year NBA career.
Nicholas, fresh out of Olympia High School, brings his talent as a guard, and his senior stats speak volumes about his potential. Averaging 10.6 points per game while shooting an impressive 39% from the field and 38% from beyond the arc, his performance has been a key highlight. With this commitment, Nicholas not only honors his father's legacy but aims to create one of his own at Maryland.
This addition makes Nicholas the 15th recruit for the Terrapins, sealing their 2025-26 roster. He'll be a vital part of a rich backcourt line-up, joining fellow 2025 commits like Darius Adams, Aleks Alston, Guillermo Del Pino, and Jaziah Harper. The Terrapins are gearing up for an exciting season under the new leadership of Buzz Williams, who arrives from Texas A&M with a commendable track record, after previously coaching at Virginia Tech, Marquette, and New Orleans.
Nicholas will be starting his collegiate journey backing up lead guard and Indiana transfer Myles Rice, with a chance to learn and flourish in a competitive setting. If he manages to channel even a fraction of the illustrious career his father enjoyed in the pros, Maryland fans are in for a treat.
Reflecting on Steve Blake's NBA tenure, he was a reliable guard known for his court vision and shooting accuracy. His professional journey saw him don jerseys for the Washington Wizards, Portland Trail Blazers, Milwaukee Bucks, Denver Nuggets, LA Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors, and Detroit Pistons. Posting averages of 6.5 points, 4.0 assists, and 2.1 rebounds per game, Steve Blake was not just a contributor on the court, but a player with a knack for making pivotal plays, especially with his near 40% shooting from three-point land.
2025 Olympia HS guard Nick Blake, son of Maryland legend & NBA guard Steve Blake, has announced his commitment to Maryland
— Inside the Black & Gold (@Insideblackgold) May 27, 2025
Blake averaged 10.6 PPG and shot 39% from the field, 38% from 3PT as a senior
Blake also becomes the 15th addition, finalizing the 2025-26 roster pic.twitter.com/hlTGqccqLW
As Nicholas embarks on his own path at Maryland, there is a palpable excitement to see how he will leverage the rich heritage and guidance from his father while under the spotlight in College Park.