Terps Are Deep And Dangerous
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JAKE LAYMAN
By DERON SNYDER
The stream of early season cupcakes didn’t leave Maryland soft and weak Saturday when the Terrapins faced Virginia Tech in the Atlantic Coast Conference opener. Although opponents hadn’t offered much resistance as Mark Turgeon’s squad reeled off 12 consecutive wins, regular practice sessions made his team hard, strong and hungry to devour a real foe.
The Hokies qualified in name and league, but they were treated like another Monmouth or South Carolina State. In the process of a 94-71 rout, Maryland provided ample evidence that it’s deep and dangerous, with multiple assets inside, outside and in-between.
You want 3-point shooting? Freshmen Jake Layman and Seth Allen hit a combined 7 of 15. You want presence in the post? Sophomore Alex Len hit 6 of his 12 shots and finished with a quiet 16 points and nine rebounds. You want ball movement? The Terps recorded 18 assists on 31 field goals. You want solid bench play? Maryland’s reserves outscored their counterparts, 32-9.
Turgeon had expressed concern about the preparedness of his four freshmen stars, including big men Charles Mitchell and Shaquille Cleare. The coach was worried about their rate of progress and lack of consistency as the team meandered through a decidedly easy schedule.
Turns out he fretted for nothing.
