In an unusual turn of events for head coach Brenda Frese’s 24-year tenure with the No. 22 Maryland women’s basketball team, the Terps find themselves on the brink of an unwelcome record, having lost their last four games. The most recent setback came on Saturday against Oregon, where Maryland suffered a 68-61 defeat. This string of losses has included a challenging three-game homestand, leaving the Terps searching for answers as they prepare for their next challenge.
On Wednesday, Maryland will face No. 12 Michigan State, a formidable opponent currently enjoying a successful season with a record of 19-3 and 8-3 in the Big Ten. The game is set to tip off at 6:30 p.m. from Breslin Center and will be available for streaming on Big Ten Plus. Head coach Robyn Fralick, now in her third season at Michigan State, has successfully guided the Spartans to two NCAA Tournament appearances, and their current form suggests another postseason run is likely.
Despite their recent defeat to No. 9 Michigan in overtime, the Spartans have been impressive, winning eight of their last ten games. Their best victories this season include triumphs over ranked opponents like No. 13 Ole Miss and No. 24 Washington. In their eight common opponents this season, Maryland holds a 4-4 record, whereas Michigan State has fared better at 6-2.
Key players for Michigan State include Grace VanSlooten, a senior forward and the team’s leading scorer, averaging 15.1 points and 6.3 rebounds. Redshirt sophomore guard Kennedy Blair has made significant contributions, leading the team with averages of 7.1 rebounds and 5.4 assists per game. Junior guard Rashunda Jones, who joined from Purdue, has stood out for her defensive prowess, boasting 2.6 steals per game.
While Michigan State showcases a potent scoring offense, averaging 86.2 points per game, they have struggled with three-point shooting in Big Ten play, a trend that could be addressed given their overall strength from beyond the arc in non-conference games.
For Maryland, the upcoming match is not just about breaking a losing streak; it’s a moment of reckoning as they strive to improve their performance in close games, reduce turnovers, and enhance their three-point shooting, which currently ranks among the lowest in the conference.
The stakes are high for the Terps as they aim to avoid their first five-game losing streak under Frese’s leadership while attempting to regain their footing in a tough conference landscape. With three of their final seven opponents ranked, every game is critical in maintaining their status and aiming for a successful season revival as they head into the latter half of the schedule.