No. 16 Maryland Faces No. 8 Michigan State in Crucial Showdown

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — The No. 16 Maryland men’s basketball team is set to face No. 8 Michigan State in a high-stakes matchup on Wednesday, February 26, at 6:30 p.m. ET at Xfinity Center. The contest not only features two top-25 teams but also holds significant implications for the Big Ten standings as the Terps aim to elevate their status ahead of the impending Big Ten Tournament.

Having earned their highest ranking of the season in the Associated Press top-25 poll earlier this week, the Terps (21-6, 11-5 Big Ten) are looking to enhance their tournament credentials. Meanwhile, Michigan State (22-5, 13-3 Big Ten) comes into the game as the top team in the conference, bolstered by a recent victory over in-state rival No. 15 Michigan, where they won 75-62. This rivalry-infused triumph adds to the excitement around Wednesday’s clash.

Maryland’s head coach Kevin Willard recognizes the importance of this matchup, stating, “Every game at this point in the season matters. Playing a team like Michigan State provides a perfect gauge of where we stand as a program.”

The Spartans are riding a wave of momentum, having won their last two games against ranked opponents and boasting a formidable defense that allows just 67.2 points per game, placing them among the best in the nation per KenPom statistics. Jaden Akins, a senior guard, leads Michigan State’s scoring with an average of 13 points per game, while also contributing 3.6 rebounds and 1.5 assists.

Despite their strong defensive capabilities, Michigan State faces challenges in three-point shooting, with a conference-low average of 29.6%. The Spartans have mitigated this shortcoming by attempting fewer three-pointers than any other team in the Big Ten, which limits their exposure to potential scoring droughts. Coach Tom Izzo acknowledges the concern but believes in the team’s ability to adapt game by game.

Maryland’s latest victory came against USC, where they secured an impressive 88-71 win on February 20. The Terps’ starting five, known as the “Crab Five,” plays a significant role in their success, presenting a contrast to Michigan State’s deeper rotation.

This matchup marks the 25th all-time meeting between these two programs, and Michigan State holds a 16-8 advantage in the series, having won the last six encounters. Forward Jaxon Kohler, who leads the Spartans in rebounding with 7.6 boards per game, will be key to their game plan against Maryland.

Fans can catch the game on the Big Ten Network, with Jason Horowitz, Robbie Hummel, and Andy Katz calling the action. The Terps are currently favored by 3.5 points, with an over/under total set at 150.5 points, setting the scene for an electrifying evening of college basketball.