Terrapins Narrowly Outscored in Fierce Encounter with Fighting Illini
The Maryland Terrapins, unranked this season, faced a challenging contest against the 14th ranked Fighting Illini at the Xfinity Center. The game ended with a tight scoreline of 85-80 in favor of the visitors. The Terrapins now hold a record that reflects their tenacious efforts throughout the season.
In front of a packed house at the Xfinity Center, with every one of its 17,950 seats filled, the home team displayed remarkable resilience. Despite trailing by five points at halftime with a score of 38-43 against Illinois' Fighting Illini, Maryland fought back to add 42 points in the second half. However, it wasn't quite enough to overcome Illinois' consistent performance across both halves.
The Terrapins showcased their strength inside by scoring 44 points in the paint compared to Illinois' 36. They also capitalized on turnovers more effectively than their opponents, scoring 12 points off turnovers while Illinois managed only six from similar opportunities.
Maryland's free throw accuracy was commendable as they made good on 83 percent of their attempts from the line. Their two-point shooting was also efficient at a rate of 49 percent but fell short when compared to Illinois’ impressive two-point shooting percentage which stood at an even higher mark.
Defensively both teams were evenly matched with each recording four blocks and Maryland edging out slightly with three steals over Illinois' two. Rebounding was another area where Maryland excelled; they outrebounded Illinois by five boards overall and secured eleven offensive rebounds which contributed to seventeen second-chance points.
Despite these efforts and leading four times during play while tying another four times, fouls proved costly for Maryland as two players fouled out over the course of action-packed three hours and twenty minutes.
Looking ahead for fans eager to follow their team's journey: The Maryland Terrapins will next take on Wisconsin Badgers away from home turf at Kohl Center located in Madison on February 20th scheduled for an evening tip-off time broadcasted via Peacock network online platform.