After an impressive 32-point victory over Grand Canyon, Maryland's men's basketball team shifts its focus to Colorado State, a formidable No. 12 seed that has already made waves in the tournament by defeating a higher-seeded Memphis squad. While the Terps have historically struggled against top-tier seeds in the second round, this game presents an opportunity for them to advance further than they have since 2016. The contest is scheduled for Sunday evening and will be broadcast on TBS from Seattle.

Colorado State, having triumphed in their first NCAA Tournament win in over a decade, showcases remarkable momentum under seventh-year coach Niko Medved. Their recent success includes a ten-game winning streak leading up to the tournament. Key players such as Nique Clifford, Kyan Evans, and Jalen Lake contribute significantly to their dynamic play style. Despite their strengths, the Rams face challenges due to their lack of height, which could prove advantageous for Maryland’s big men.

Analyzing Colorado State: Strengths and Weaknesses

Colorado State boasts a balanced offensive attack with strong ball movement, averaging nearly 17 assists per game. This pass-heavy system allows multiple players to facilitate plays effectively. However, their lineup lacks size, making them vulnerable on both ends of the court when facing taller opponents.

The Rams' standout player, Nique Clifford, leads the team in scoring, rebounding, and assists, showcasing his versatility as a guard who can nearly achieve double-doubles. Sophomore Kyan Evans also contributed significantly in their opening-round victory with a career-high 23 points, while senior Jalen Lake provides additional firepower from beyond the arc. Their ability to move the ball efficiently creates opportunities for these key players to shine. Yet, without a significant presence inside, Colorado State struggles defensively, particularly in shot-blocking and securing offensive rebounds.

Key Factors Determining Maryland's Success

For Maryland to secure a Sweet 16 berth, several factors must align. Deshawn Harris-Smith emerged as a crucial bench contributor in their previous match, scoring a season-high 11 points. His continued performance adds depth to the already potent starting lineup. Additionally, Maryland must address slow starts, as evidenced by their initial struggles against Grand Canyon.

Starting strong will be essential moving forward, given the increasing competition level. Another critical aspect is maintaining clean play; Maryland has successfully reduced turnovers in recent games, demonstrating improved control. This discipline has been vital in overcoming earlier-season challenges and will remain crucial in high-stakes matchups like this one. By capitalizing on Colorado State’s weaknesses and leveraging their own strengths, the Terps aim to extend their tournament run significantly.