Playing on Sunday!

Today's ACC semi-final match between Maryland and Carolina was a rollicking rollercoaster of emotions, complete with ups, downs, runs, lead changes, and (just for good measure) some very creative officiating thrown in. But first and foremost, it was also one of those classic "ACC offensive battles," with nearly 200 points scored in 40 minutes. For Terps fans, it definitely was FUN . . . if your idea of fun is not breathing for most of that time! But when the dust settled and the Terps had outlasted the Tar Heels, 95-84, every Maryland fan we spotted was sporting a huge grin and hugging anyone wearing red. It was a while before our heart rates settled down . . . but that was due to the post-game excitement. We're playing on Sunday for the first time since 2006!

Though our seniors did their usual terrific job (Marissa Coleman led all scorers with 29, and Kristi Toliver was close behind with 25), today's huge win most certainly wasn't an all senior affair. To the contrary -- Maryland's underclassmen were major contributors to this "big-stage" victory. In particular, we want to give a shout out to ACC Freshman of the Year, Lynetta Kizer (15 pts & 9 rbs in 29 minutes), who played with the poise and skill of a seasoned veteran. And another big shout out belongs to Kim Rodgers, who added 11 points off the bench, including 3 (!) important, momentum-building three-pointers. Thanks to this team effort, the Terps defeated the four-time defending ACC Champions, and (we repeat) will be playing on Sunday in Greensboro.

In the other semi-final, Florida State, perhaps suffering stage fright from being on the ACC "big-stage" for the first time, was overwhelmed by Duke, 57-75. Despite the loss, the 'Noles deserve credit for a great job this ACC season (co-champs of the regular season!), and their fans . . . well, the BasketCases award them a very special shout out. There weren't that many of them here in Greensboro, but those who did make the trip were loud and extremely supportive of their team. They sported some of the best outfits, including Tee shirts that said "SUEper Fan." And how many fans do you know who who travel with a life-size cut-out of their coach?

Tomorrow's Championship Final tips off at 1 PM. If you won't be here in person, you can catch the action on Comcast SportsNet Plus.

And, whether you're here or not, don't forget: tonight is Daylight Savings Time: set your clocks one hour ahead. You do not want to turn up at the Greensboro Coliseum (or turn on your TV) an hour late when the Terps are playing Duke on Sunday for the ACC Championship!

Photo Credits: DC BasketCases