The start to the season was underwhelming. It was utterly disappointing. The life seemed to be sucked out of Maryland men’s basketball.
But the Terps put that negativity to bed Sunday — for a few days at least — when it shocked No. 10 Illinois, 76-67. Jahmir Young and Julian Reese catalyzed an unbelievably efficient performance, combining for 48 points.
The win marked Maryland’s first ranked victory of the season, and one that might just change the course of the season.
A large reason why Maryland entered Sunday’s game with just one road conference win dating back to last season was because of its tendency to struggle out of the gates.