Maryland basketball may be taking its lumps on the court this season, but behind the scenes, there’s a different kind of momentum building - one that could reshape the program’s future. Despite the struggles in the win-loss column, head coach Buzz Williams is making serious noise on the recruiting trail.
The Terps' 2026 recruiting class is currently ranked No. 4 in the nation, led by five-star local standout Baba Oladotun, the No. 11 overall player in the country. And now, Maryland is positioning itself for another major splash.
Five-star junior Obinna Ekezie Jr. - a name that carries real weight in College Park - is scheduled for an official visit to Maryland on February 1, when the Terps host Purdue. Ekezie isn’t just a top-tier prospect; he’s the No. 4 overall player and the top-ranked center in the Class of 2027, according to 247Sports. And yes, he’s the son of former Maryland star Obinna Ekezie, who anchored the Terps' frontcourt in the late '90s and went on to a six-year NBA career after scoring over 1,000 points in College Park.
This visit has been in the works for a while. Maryland had initially discussed bringing Ekezie Jr. in over the winter break, but with students away and the atmosphere expected to be subdued, the staff opted to wait for a bigger stage - and Purdue at home certainly qualifies.
What makes this recruitment even more intriguing is the possibility that Ekezie Jr. could reclassify from 2027 to 2026, much like Oladotun did. That would mean he could suit up for Maryland as early as next season. It’s a move that would instantly elevate Maryland’s frontcourt and add even more star power to what’s already shaping up to be a top-tier class.
But make no mistake: this won’t be a walk in the park. Ekezie is being courted by the usual bluebloods - he recently visited Kentucky - and Maryland will have to fight to keep him close to home.
That said, the Terps have a compelling pitch: legacy. This is a chance for Ekezie Jr. to follow in his father’s footsteps, to wear the same jersey, walk the same halls, and build his own legacy in the same building where his dad became a Maryland great.
And it’s not just about family ties. Head coach Buzz Williams has made it clear that Ekezie is a top priority.
According to Ekezie Jr., Williams told him he’s his favorite prospect and that he’s going to make a serious push to bring him to College Park. That kind of personal attention matters - especially when it’s coming from a head coach with a vision and a plan.
Of course, if Ekezie does reclassify, Maryland will have some roster math to work out. The program has already committed significant NIL resources to Oladotun - reportedly around $1.8 million - and center Pharrel Payne could pursue a medical redshirt, potentially returning next season. That creates some financial and scholarship juggling, but the fact that Maryland is actively pursuing Ekezie, even sending staff to Florida during the season to watch him play, signals they believe they can make it work.
Bottom line: Maryland might be struggling in the present, but the future is looking brighter by the day. With Oladotun already on board and Ekezie Jr. in their sights, the Terps are building something - and if they can land both, it could mark a turning point for the program under Buzz Williams.