Notes from Maryland 67, American 51
Did you notice that...
*American guard Garrison Carr, who had 34 points against UMBC in his previous game, had 11 last night -- but just two in the second half when it really mattered. That's testament to Maryland's defense, which was far more aggressive than in last season's game between the teams.
"We worked on Carr not hitting threes and staying in front of [Derrick] Mercer," said Maryland freshman Sean Mosley, who was not down despite scoring just one point. "The scoring will come when it's time for me to score," Mosley said.
*With Maryland up by 23, Greivis Vasquez threw away a pass, then screamed and shook his arm in anger. He's a perfect match for Gary Williams, isn't he? Lots of intensity and bluster.
*Vasquez was characteristically blunt comparing last year's effort against American with this one. "This is a different team. We play harder and play better defense than last year," Vasquez said.
*Cliff Tucker missed an open layup -- a lapse that coach Williams blamed on fatigue. Williams said there was a sub at the scorer's table ready to replace Tucker. "Cliff can get way over the rim. Except not there," Williams said with a smile.
Comments
a win is always good but having neal and hayes lead the team in rebounding is a sad commentary on maryland's frontline.
Posted by: fkterp | December 23, 2008 9:53 AM
One thing I've noticed this year is that Mosley quietly does all the right things. He's not filling the stat sheet yet but he's always grabbing loose balls, rotating correctly, spacing out when Vasquez drives (underrated factor) and simply accepting his role in the flow of the offense. I predict by the end of this year/early 2009 season he'll be invaluable.
Posted by: AreUKidding | December 23, 2008 12:47 PM
I am a little dissappointed that the Terps did not beat AU like they owed us money...I will take the 16 point win anyways...
AU was really the toughest competition (of the cupcake teams on the non conference schedule)...however, that does not mean that Charlotte or Morgan State won't surprise somebody...
I expect MD to head into Miami at 13-2 (yes, I expect MD to beat Georgia Tech). If my prediction holds true? then it becomes very feasible that we will have a 20 win season. My conservative prediction also has us with a 7-9 ACC record. I hope the terps do better than that (we should sweep Georgia Tech, & Virginia). Beating Boston, NC State & V Tech also seems very feasible. If we can win 2 games out of the rest of the schedule (Miami, Duke & NC twice, Clemson, Fl State & Wake Forest once), we will be going to the Torunament.
So much for the naysayers out there.
I just hope that all of our guys step up!
Go Terps!
Posted by: De | December 23, 2008 3:38 PM