The Vagaries of Youth

There were times during the Terps' 84-67 win over Old Dominion tonight when the young Maryland players looked as though they had been playing together for years, most notably early in the second half, when Maryland used a series of exciting, well-executed plays to open up a 26-point lead on the visiting Monarchs. But, alas, there were also times when it looked as if they had just met . . . and never played together before. That would be the 5 minutes or so following the Terps' big run, during which they allowed ODU to narrow that lead to single digits. Ahh, youth!

The Monarchs came into Comcast hoping to reverse course after last week's loss to #2 ranked Stanford by knocking off the untested Terps. As expected, ODU turned out to be the toughest opponent the Terps have faced so far this season. But while this was the closest thing to a competitive "game" we've seen, the young Maryland team played well enough -- in stretches -- to deny the visitors their first win of the season.

For the second game in a row, Diandra T led all Maryland scorers, tonight putting up 22 points. "Frenchie," as she's called by her teammates (the lamest nickname we've heard in a long time!), may be a Freshman, but she plays with a confidence and maturity beyond her years. Lynetta Kizer, again exhibiting some really strong moves inside (and some nice 15-foot jumpers as well), was close behind with 19 points, not to mention 10 boards for a double-double. Tianna Hawkins and Anjale Barrett also scored in double figures (11 and 10 points, respectively).

So the Terps' home win streak lives to see another day, and won't be tested again until Tuesday, when they play Stanford Samford. In the meantime, Maryland will be taking one of their few road trips of the pre-ACC season when they travel to Dixie on Sunday for a 3 PM ET game against #25 ranked Mississippi State of the SEC. A ranked team, on the road . . . this could be the Terps' toughest match-up of the out-of-conference schedule. (Unfortunately this game isn't televised, but you can follow the action via audio broadcast on WMUCSports.com)

If you've been at Comcast this season, it probably hasn't escaped your attention that attendance is down somewhat. For those who may be staying home because the "stars" have graduated (shame on you!), we'd like you to know that you're really missing a lot of fun. Every fan we've spoken to says the same thing: These young Terps are playing their hearts out, and they are fun to watch and fun to see grow! So get off your butts and come on out to Comcast. Bring your family, your friends, your co-workers, your barristas . . . we guarantee y'all will have a good time! So mark your calendars and come on out for a little pre-Turkey fun next Tuesday at 7 PM.

Meanwhile . . . Go Terps, Beat the MSU Bulldogs!