Kenpom Style of Play

Offense

The Terps play a unique offense with 4 players around 1. One of the two post players is often positioned at or above the free throw line. The interior big can post up or act as a rebounder/dump off man in the high pick and roll. Guards like Ja’Kabi Gillespie and Rodney Rice contribute significantly, while the offense revolves around the two bigs. Derik Queen, a McDonald's All-American freshman, is a true force. Standing at 6’10” and 250 pounds, he can post up and drive from the perimeter. His game goes beyond the paint, making him a key player for Maryland.

Julian Reese, a veteran forward, has seen his game unlocked with Queen's addition. He now plays a more diverse role, scoring in different ways and being an effective screener and rebounder. His efficiency has improved, shooting 63% and averaging 13 points.

Defense

Maryland's defense is elite, currently ranked 9th in adjusted efficiency and turnovers. Opponents struggle against their defense, shooting only 28% from 3 and 43.1% from 2. However, most of these stats were against weaker competition. Against Ohio State, they held guards to a combined 17 points. The team isn't afraid to switch defenses, with Reese and Queen playing perimeter defense when needed. They are willing to give up mismatches to contest shots.

Maryland also likes to full court press, which can put pressure on opponents. This has been a challenge for Purdue's guards after their performance against Penn State's pressure.

Personnel

The Maryland starters include Ja’Kabi Gillespie (Jr., 6’1″, 185), Rodney Rice (So., 6’4″, 200), Selton Miguel (Sr., 6’4″, 220), Derik Queen (Fr., 6’10″, 250), and Julian Reese (Jr., 6’9″, 230). The bench players like Jay Young (Sr., 6’2″, 180), Deshawn Harris-Smith (So., 6’5″, 210), Malachi Palmer (Fr., 6’6″, 210), and Tafara Gapare (Jr., 6’9″, 215) also contribute in their own ways.

Georgia Tech transfer Tafara Gapare has been on fire recently, shooting 42% from 3. He can replace Reese or Queen in the front line.

Overall

The matchup against Purdue is a tough one. Maryland's defense can bother Purdue, and their offense is getting better. While Maryland is good, it remains to be seen if they can beat Purdue in Mackey. This is a home game for Purdue, and they need to avoid a 0-2 start in the Big10. It's a game that could test Purdue's resolve.

In terms of prediction, KenPom gives Purdue a 74-70 advantage with 63% confidence. Drew predicts Purdue at 68 and Maryland at 77. It's a game that could go either way, with Purdue's guards facing a tough challenge against Maryland's guard play.