COLLEGE PARK, MD – The No. 4 seed Maryland women's basketball team has successfully advanced to the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16, after a gripping double overtime victory against No. 5 seed Alabama, with a final score of 111-108. This exciting second-round match took place at the XFINITY Center on Monday, marking a significant moment in the team's journey this season.
The Terps now boast an impressive overall record of 25-7 and have a remarkable 43-18 record in NCAA Tournament games under the leadership of head coach Brenda Frese. This thrilling game stands as the second-highest scoring match in Women's NCAA Tournament history, surpassed only by a 1995 matchup that ended with a score of 121-120 after four overtimes.
Ranked No. 18, Maryland will make its 12th Sweet 16 appearance under Frese, as they prepare to face No. 1 seed South Carolina on Friday, March 28. This match will be held in Birmingham, Alabama, and streamed live on ESPN. The exact game time will be announced shortly.
In a game filled with intensity, Sarah Te-Biasu emerged as a standout performer, scoring a season-high 26 points, including 10 crucial points during overtime. Te-Biasu's overall shooting performance was impressive, hitting 9-of-17 from the floor and 5-of-7 from beyond the arc. She also contributed with six assists and four rebounds.
The contest was a rollercoaster of emotions, featuring six lead changes and 12 ties. At one point, Maryland faced a daunting 17-point deficit, trailing 62-45 late in the third quarter. However, this comeback equaled the fourth-largest in NCAA women's basketball tournament history since 2018 and marked Maryland's largest comeback since 2019.
As the game progressed, Shyanne Sellers led the Terps with a season-high of 28 points, showcasing her skills with 16 points scored in the fourth quarter and overtime. She shot 8-of-17 overall, including 3-of-8 from three-point range, further solidifying her role as a key player. Other notable performances came from Kaylene Smikle, who contributed 23 points before fouling out in overtime, and Allie Kubek, who recorded a double-double with 19 points and 12 rebounds.
Maryland's strong bench play also played a crucial role, with Mir McLean adding eight points and a season-high 10 rebounds, demonstrating the depth of the Terps' roster.
With this victory, Maryland secured its sixth win over a ranked team this season. Coach Frese achieved a significant milestone, marking her 100th win against ranked opponents during her tenure. This victory is also notable as it continues Maryland’s streak of 15 consecutive NCAA Tournament bids, dating back to 2011.
Under Frese's leadership, Maryland has made 21 NCAA Tournament appearances in her 23 seasons, a testament to her remarkable coaching career. The Terps have advanced to 12 Sweet 16s, seven Elite Eights, three Final Fours, and claimed the NCAA Championship in 2006.
As Maryland prepares for their match against South Carolina, fans eagerly anticipate another thrilling chapter in this season’s remarkable journey. The Terps will aim to build on their momentum and continue their quest for NCAA Tournament glory. Tune in on March 28 to catch all the action live on ESPN.
Stay connected for more updates on Maryland women's basketball as they strive for excellence in this year's NCAA Tournament.
