Main Story: Maryland enters Buzz Williams’ second season with a dramatically rebuilt roster and an emphasis on chemistry, resilience and hard work. Led by returning standouts Pharrel Payne and Andre Mills, the Terps aim to define a new identity, compete in the Big Ten and make a push toward March.

By the Numbers
  • 11 new players joined the roster: 6 transfers and 4 freshmen, alongside a five-player returning core.
  • Payne averaged 17.5 points and 7.2 rebounds before an injury sidelined him for much of last season.
  • Mills recorded 20 double-digit scoring games as a freshman.
  • Maryland won both of its preseason exhibitions and has 17 home games scheduled.
  • The home slate includes games against Virginia (No. 9), Michigan State (No. 6), UCLA (No. 22), USC (No. 21) and Illinois (No. 3).
Yes, But

The roster’s talent and upbeat preseason chemistry offer promise, but a largely new group still has to translate summer work into consistent results. Maryland’s ambitions will depend on how quickly the newcomers and returners establish roles and perform against a demanding schedule.

State of Play
  • Payne, a Preseason All-Big Ten selection, returns as a key scorer and a more vocal leader.
  • Transfers Mike McNair Jr. and DJ Wagner bring Power Conference experience; five-star freshman Baba Oladotun is among the newcomers.
  • Maryland will wear throwback uniforms honoring its 2002 national championship team.
What's Next

The Terps open a season featuring a Georgetown rivalry game and a challenging run of home matchups. Williams’ priority is to build the team through the season so it is ready to peak in March.

Bottom Line

Maryland has set its sights high, but the season will hinge on execution: turning a revamped roster’s early connection into a clear identity and wins against Big Ten competition.