Oluchi Okananwa’s impact at Maryland is becoming undeniable-and on Thursday night, she got her flowers. The veteran guard was honored in a pregame ceremony after hitting two major career milestones: her 1,000th career point, which came against Ohio State, and her 500th rebound, secured just days later against USC. Both marks are significant, but what’s more impressive is how seamlessly she’s continued to elevate her game in a new system.
Okananwa made her name at Duke, where she was the standout performer of the 2025 ACC Tournament and helped lead the Blue Devils to an Elite Eight appearance. That postseason run wasn’t just a flash in the pan-it was a preview of what she could do when the lights were brightest. Now in Maryland colors, she’s proving that her game travels.
This season, Okananwa is averaging 17.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. She’s not just putting up numbers-she’s doing it as the go-to option on a Maryland team loaded with talent.
Her scoring versatility has given head coach Brenda Frese a dynamic weapon, whether it’s in transition, off the dribble, or working within the half-court offense. And she’s not just getting it done on one end.
Defensively, Okananwa has been just as impactful. With 43 steals on the season, she ranks fourth in the Big Ten, showing off the instincts and quick hands that make her a constant disruptor. It’s that two-way presence that’s made her such an integral piece of Maryland’s success.
Speaking of success, Maryland’s offense has been humming. The Terps have racked up 1,773 points so far this season-more than 100 ahead of the next closest team in the conference.
That kind of production doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of smart gameplanning, efficient execution, and players like Okananwa who can create and finish plays at a high level.
Elsewhere in Maryland Athletics:
- Maryland Women’s Basketball Falls in OT: The No. 15-ranked Terps battled No. 10 Iowa in a heavyweight Big Ten clash on Thursday, but ultimately fell 85-78 in overtime. It was a hard-fought game that offered plenty of takeaways.
- Stefon Diggs in the Spotlight Again: Former Maryland wide receiver Stefon Diggs has been named a finalist for the AP Comeback Player of the Year award. A well-earned nod for one of the program’s most accomplished alums.
- Weather Impacts Terps Schedule: The Maryland wrestling match against Penn State has been rescheduled for Jan. 24 due to inclement weather, while the weekend’s Maryland tennis match has been canceled.
As the season rolls on, Okananwa’s continued evolution will be one to watch. She’s already etched her name into the record books-now she’s focused on helping Maryland make a deep postseason run. With her leading the charge, the Terps have every reason to believe they can do just that.