In a commanding performance, Maryland kicked off its Big Ten Tournament journey by dispatching the No. 16-seeded Oregon, 70-60. The Terps never trailed, thanks to an impressive first half that set the tone for the night. Five players stepped up to score in double figures, extending Maryland's season and showcasing the depth of their roster.
David Coit led the charge with 17 points, including a trio of three-pointers that helped propel Maryland into a second-round clash with No. 9-seeded Iowa. Coit’s sharpshooting and leadership on the court were instrumental in keeping the Terps ahead throughout the game.
Elijah Saunders was another standout, hitting a career-high five triples on his way to 15 points. His hot hand was a key factor in Maryland's offensive surge, marking his fifth double-digit game in the last six outings. Andre Mills contributed with a well-rounded performance, adding 12 points, six rebounds, and five assists, continuing his streak of consistent scoring.
The Terps' defense was stifling from the get-go, holding Oregon without a field goal for over 11 minutes and building a 14-6 lead. This defensive prowess helped Maryland limit the Ducks to just 12 first-half points, the fewest they've allowed in a tournament game since 1982.
Solomon Washington and Darius Adams also made significant contributions, with Washington scoring 12 points and grabbing five rebounds, while Adams added 10 points from the free-throw line. Together, they helped Maryland dominate the boards, out-rebounding Oregon 38-28.
The game was a showcase of Maryland's offensive firepower, as they knocked down nine three-pointers, pushing their season total to 272 - tying the second-highest mark in program history. Coit’s 71 three-pointers this season now rank 11th all-time for Maryland.
Buzz Williams, reflecting on the game, highlighted the importance of maintaining a low turnover rate and praised his team's defensive set-up. He acknowledged the team's evolution and the tactical adjustments that have been made throughout the season.
With this victory, Maryland not only secured their first-ever win over Oregon but also set the stage for their upcoming game against Iowa. The Terps are playing with renewed confidence and cohesion, ready to continue their tournament run.