Michigan Falls to Maryland, Title Hopes Dimming

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Maryland‘s strong second half led to a 71-65 victory over No. 17 Michigan on March 5, 2025, effectively sealing a share of the Big Ten title for No. 8 Michigan State. The Terrapins (23-7, 13-6 Big Ten) have now won six of their last seven games, while the Wolverines (22-8, 14-5) have dropped two consecutive matchups, contributing to their fall from the top of the conference standings.

Maryland gained traction in the first half, limiting Michigan to a season-low 22 points and establishing an 11-point lead by halftime. The Wolverines struggled offensively with nine turnovers in the second half, hindering their ability to mount a successful comeback.

Maryland’s depth shone through as multiple players contributed significantly. Leading the charge were Terrapins’ Kevin Willard‘s dynamic duo, who scored 20 points each. Michigan’s Danny Wolf and Vladislav Goldin also had standout performances, each contributing 20 points, with Goldin also securing 15 rebounds for his fifth double-double of the season.

“We did have our chances, but we couldn’t capitalize when it mattered most,” said Michigan head coach Dusty May, reflecting on the missed opportunities that cost his team the game. “Our turnovers and the inability to convert at the line were crucial.”

The first half began sluggishly for both teams, with a combined shooting performance of 3-for-13 in the early going. Michigan initially found its footing with an 8-0 run, but Maryland’s Ja'Kobi Gillespie and Rodney Rice responded with timely three-pointers to regain a commanding lead.

The Wolverines attempted a rally in the second half, with Goldin’s quick scoring cutting the lead first to five points. However, pivotal moments like Wolf missing crucial free throws down the stretch proved detrimental.

“We need to regroup quickly,” Goldin stated after the loss. “We still have a shot at the title if results go our way this weekend, but we must focus on our performance.”

The defeat marks Michigan’s second home loss in a row and raises questions about their ability to compete for the Big Ten title. With only two games remaining in the regular season, the Wolverines are looking to bounce back against in-state rival Michigan State on Sunday, March 9.

Maryland’s victory strengthens its position in the conference as the Terrapins prepare to host Northwestern next. They currently sit at third in the standings and are looking to improve their seeding for both the Big Ten and NCAA tournaments.

“This was a critical win for us,” said Willard. “Our guys are peaking at the right moment, and we can’t afford to stall now.”