In a dramatic turn of events at Barclays Center, the Maryland Terrapins turned an early struggle into a commanding victory over Syracuse in the Gotham Classic. Both teams faced significant challenges in the first half, but Maryland's resilience and strong second-half performance secured their 87-60 win. The Terps' guards displayed exceptional play, particularly Selton Miguel and Ja’Kobi Gillespie, while the Orange struggled to regain momentum despite improved shooting accuracy in the final period.

Overcoming Early Struggles

The game began with both teams facing difficulties on offense. Maryland's frontcourt endured a rocky start, with freshman Derik Queen and senior Julian Reese struggling to find their rhythm. However, Maryland managed to turn things around with a powerful 17-2 run near halftime, leading by 26 points going into the break. Despite initial setbacks, the Terps' guards provided a much-needed boost, keeping the team afloat.

The opening minutes were challenging for both squads. Syracuse shot poorly, committing numerous turnovers, while Maryland's frontcourt players faced their own set of issues. Queen was benched early due to errant plays, and Reese missed several easy scoring opportunities. Yet, as the game progressed, key players like Queen found their stride, sparking a pivotal run that shifted the momentum entirely in Maryland's favor. This surge was driven by timely scoring and solid teamwork, setting the stage for a dominant second half.

Guard Leadership Fuels Victory

Maryland's backcourt duo of Selton Miguel and Ja’Kobi Gillespie played instrumental roles in securing the win. Miguel continued his impressive form, contributing significantly throughout the game. His sharp shooting and consistent scoring kept the Terps ahead, while Gillespie's versatility shone through with a career-first double-double. Their combined efforts ensured Maryland maintained control of the game.

Miguel's performance was nothing short of stellar, leading the team with 24 points and showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure. Gillespie added depth with 17 points and 11 assists, including a memorable behind-the-back pass that resulted in a three-pointer. Head coach Kevin Willard praised Gillespie's development, highlighting his growing understanding of when and where to distribute the ball. This synergy between the guards created multiple scoring opportunities, making it difficult for Syracuse to mount a comeback. Despite the Orange's improved second-half shooting, Maryland's lead proved insurmountable, leading to a decisive victory.