Greivis Vasquez has been quite the presence in the sports world recently. The former Maryland basketball standout is now lending his voice to Spanish-speaking broadcasts of the NCAA Tournament for Westwood Sports, providing insights on the Wizards for Monumental Sports, and even eyeing a role with new Maryland coach, Buzz Williams. During a candid chat on the Zach Gelb Show on Sirius XM, Vasquez shared his views on the transition from Kevin Willard to Williams and the nature of Willard's departure from Maryland to Villanova.
Vasquez didn't hold back, expressing that, while he respects Coach Willard, the way he handled questions about Villanova during the tournament left something to be desired. "I wanted to hear him say, 'Hey, right now, it's all about Maryland basketball.
We're focused on winning a national championship. After the tournament, we'll talk about everything else.'
It felt like a betrayal, honestly," Vasquez reflected. The Maryland community expected professionalism and dedication towards the current program, and many, including Vasquez, felt Willard could have managed the communications more suitably.
Turning the page, Vasquez is optimistic about Buzz Williams stepping in. "We're thrilled about Buzz Williams and the leadership he brings to Maryland.
He's a proven winner and a tremendous leader. We're pumped for what the future holds for us as the Terrapins.
Supporting our basketball program is what I'm all about. I love college basketball, and this is an exciting chapter for us."
Reflecting on his own playing days, Vasquez fondly looked back at his time at Maryland. "Those four years were the best of my life.
I cherish every Final Four broadcast, each moment watching college athletes play. It all flies by so quickly.
I remember that last game against Michigan State like it was yesterday. Time passes quickly, and being the ACC Player of the Year and winning the Bob Cousy Award still feels surreal."
His interest in coaching is growing, mingling with his broadcasting career. "I miss being on the floor and influencing the game directly.
The idea of coaching and developing players, particularly those who are underestimated, is appealing. I defied doubts about my athleticism, and by my third NBA year, I led the league in assists.
Hard work, preparation, and love for the game can take you far."
Regarding Duke, Vasquez clarified there's no animosity despite the fierce college rivalry. "People think I dislike Duke, but in truth, I respect Coach K and have a great relationship with Jon Scheyer.
It's tough seeing them fall short after fighting so hard. It reminds me of our own big comeback against them at Cole Field House—such is the heartbreak of March Madness."
On Florida's depth, he remarked, "They brought in 29 points off the bench against Maryland, while our reserves only put up three. That kind of depth can be a game-changer."
Finally, touching on Houston's Kelvin Sampson, Vasquez praised the coach's resilience and character. "Sampson has transformed the program despite his past challenges.
Houston took a chance on him, and he's added incredible value. His character shines, and he's not one to rest on his laurels."
With all these insights, Vasquez is clearly a voice to reckon with in contemporary sports media, blending his love for the game with an engaging, relatable style that fans can connect with.
