Maryland men’s basketball may be navigating a rough patch on the court, but behind the scenes, the program is quietly stacking momentum where it matters most - on the recruiting trail. Head coach Buzz Williams has shown he can reel in top-tier talent, and he’s got another big opportunity on the horizon.
Five-star center Obinna Ekezie Jr. is scheduled to visit College Park on February 1, when the Terps host No. 12 Purdue.
On paper, that matchup looks like an uphill battle for Maryland, but don’t overlook the timing. It’s a bold move - and it’s worked before.
When five-star forward Baba Oladotun made his visit during a tough 60-50 loss to Georgetown, the outcome on the scoreboard didn’t stop him from committing shortly after. Sometimes, recruits aren’t just looking for a win - they’re looking for a vision, a fit, and a future they can help shape.
Ekezie Jr. brings more than just a five-star label. He carries a legacy.
His father, Obinna Ekezie Sr., suited up for the Terps in the late ’90s and carved out a solid four-year career before heading to the NBA with the Vancouver Grizzlies. That family connection could play a role - or it might not - especially considering the elite competition for his commitment.
Programs like Kansas, Alabama, and Houston are all in the mix, and they don’t chase just anyone.
Still, if Maryland can land Ekezie, it would mark the third straight year the Terps have locked in a five-star recruit - a major statement for a program trying to climb back into national relevance. Buzz Williams wasn’t brought in for a quick fix. He’s here to build something sustainable, and while the present has its challenges, the future looks increasingly promising.
Elsewhere around Maryland athletics, the Terps are making noise on multiple fronts.
Maya Valmon, a standout on the track, earned Terp of the Week honors after taking first in the 400m dash and anchoring the winning 4x400m relay at the Dr. Sander Scorcher Invitational. Her performance is just the latest example of Maryland’s growing presence in collegiate track and field.
On the hardwood, Maryland alum Derik Queen is set to showcase his skills during NBA All-Star weekend in the Rising Stars game - a nod to his development and potential at the next level.
And on the football side, safety Jalen Huskey is turning heads as he prepares to compete in the Shrine Bowl. NFL scouts are watching closely, and Huskey’s stock continues to rise.
So while the men’s basketball team works through its current struggles, Maryland fans have plenty to keep an eye on - from rising stars on the track and the gridiron to a potential future anchor in the paint. The wins may not be piling up just yet, but the foundation is being laid for something bigger.