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03-12-2015, 02:23 AM #1Pro Bowl Poster
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Just how far will Terps advance in 2015 NCAA tourney?
In other words, are they 'for real' being ranked #8 in AP poll? My answer is Yes. Yes, they are a legitimate contender to reach the Final Four (assuming they don't face Kentucky before then). Here is my justification (without delving too deep in statistics), in order of importance:
(1) They are currently (before playing in the Big 10 tourney) 10-0 in games decided by 6 points or less. Let's consider just how much 'weight that carries'. I have been following UM basketball for over 40 years (since Lefty Dreisel began coaching there), and I do not recollect such an impressive streak. Of course, the overall competition in those games is not impressive. But nevertheless, right now, it does mean that IF they can keep a contest close then their confidence as a team is something their opponent will need to play extra hard to overcome.
(2) Hey, they have a solid defense. THAT is a key element that's been missing under Turgeon.
(3) They are also 16-5 in their remaining games. None of their wins have been especially impressive. They certainly don't score a lot of points. But they have 'taken care of business' against the weaker teams on their schedule. THAT accomplishment was also sorely missing under Turgeon.
(4) They have dramatically improved in team foul shooting - thanks in large part to Milo Trimble's contribution.
(5) They have also improved in ball control (less turnovers).
(6) Dez Wells has finally emerged as the team leader, with a lot of self-discipline and self-control in supporting his teammates. As a senior, this is it for him.
(7) Potential rematch with UVA is promising. Terps lost to them by only 11 when Wells was out.
(8) Potential matchup with Duke is promising. Terps won two of three games just last season in ACC play. Looking forward to revenge for Final Four loss in 2001 (Terps blew a 22-point lead).
(9) Terps are 1-1 against teams ranked above them (Wisconsin, Virginia - both at home).
(10) Mark Turgeon's first trip to the NCAAs with Terps. No history to cause any doubt.
They appear to be headed there as a No.3 seed which means that they most likely won't face a No.1 seed before the fourth round (ideal). As a minimum, I see them winning their first two games (versus 14th and 6th seeds). It gets interesting in the third round against a No.2 seed (should be evenly matched). IF they win that one, then they should have all the confidence they need to take on a No.1 seed to determine who goes to the Final Four. All of this assumes no upsets along their path.
Meanwhile, all I ask is that they survive the Big 10 tournament, with no injuries, no ineligibilities, and no damage to their confidence (e.g., losing a second time to a conference foe).
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03-15-2015, 07:38 PM #2Regular 1st Stringer
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Re: Just how far will Terps advance in 2015 NCAA tourney?
Terps were majorly screwed with their tourney seeding/placement. Having to face KY in the Sweet Sixteen is about the worst draw they could've gotten. I can't help but wonder if they're still being punished for leaving the ACC.
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03-18-2015, 05:22 PM #3Pro Bowl Poster
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Re: Just how far will Terps advance in 2015 NCAA tourney?
That was my first reaction Sunday evening. I expected no less than a #3 seed. I was angry and frustrated that they would be matched up against Kentucky in only the second weekend.
HOWEVER, I woke up Monday feeling a lot different about it. I was happy! It really depends on your perspective. Here's mine: To me, it is much more desirable to have the OPPORTUNITY of facing the best team in the country and eliminate them rather than advance to a national championship while AVOIDING such a meeting. IF the Terps can manage just two wins (i.e., advance to the 'sweet sixteen'), they will have the golden opportunity of making their mark in UM history. IMHO, even if they lose against the Wildcats, it's worth it. Most would think (like I did), that it's best not to meet UK before reaching the 'final four'. BUT that requires winning 4-5 games against the best teams in the country. With just TWO wins, the Terps have the chance to pull off an enormous upset that we all would cherish for decades.
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03-18-2015, 06:13 PM #4
Re: Just how far will Terps advance in 2015 NCAA tourney?
As a Terp alum, I'm not getting my hopes up...But we'll see!!
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03-18-2015, 07:18 PM #5Regular 1st Stringer
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Re: Just how far will Terps advance in 2015 NCAA tourney?
I'm feeling similarly as the week goes on. Now I'm really hoping they beat Valpo and WVU/Buff to get that shot at the pre-crowned champs! Valpo worries me, as they seem to have a lot of height - a strong inside game is NOT one of MD's strengths. Hopefully Melo and Dez can do some driving and get them into foul trouble early...
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03-23-2015, 09:31 PM #6Pro Bowl Poster
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Re: Just how far will Terps advance in 2015 NCAA tourney?
What an EXTREMELY disappointing, frustrating, and abusive end to their season, with the best team in the country (UK) up next. All undefeated teams eventually lose, you know. NBA great Bill Russell once said: "Basketball is a contact sport - football is a collision sport." Melo Trimble is forced to respectfully disagree.
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03-19-2020, 04:50 PM #7Rookie Poster
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