COLLEGE PARK, MD. (WUSA) _ Andrew and Aaron Harrison, have announced
their decision to commit to Kentucky and not the University of Maryland.
Many would have considered this a steal for Maryland and a
move that would've garnered the Terps more national attention. Head coach Mark Turgeon
has made recruiting a priority since he arrived at College Park, and although
he couldn't land the best package
deal in recent memory, just being an option shows that the Terps are on the
right track.
And how do you sway recruits? By winning games.
I already expect the Terps to make some noise this year in
the ACC. Sophomore wingman Nick Faust
made huge strides towards the end of the year and has been improving throughout
the offseason. I expect him to lead this team and his ability to play both
guard positions and the wing will help Turgeon create mismatches and try
different rotations on the court. Center Alex Len was disappointing last
season, but the Maryland staff has had a whole summer to mold him. I expect him
to have a big role as well. But outside
of the returning nucleus, it's the new class that I expect to generate some
attention this year.
Shaq Cleare, who is a former AAU teammate of the twins, is
going to start and he is going to shine. I watched him play in person last year,
and he has the size and skill set to be successful in the ACC. Jake Layman
played International ball this summer when he played for US 18 and under team.
Although he didn't make a big splash on the team, he played against elite
talent and that experience can be valuable.
My sleeper to have a good season is
freshman guard Seth Allen. With the handles of a point guard and the mindset of
scorer, I expect him to come off the bench and be consistent offensive threat.
Now that UNC lost all five of its starters to the draft and
Duke lost Austin River, I believe
Maryland could finish as a top three team, THIS season. NC
State and Florida St. will provide tough competition.
So, keep your heads up, Terpnation. You are no too far from
being a contender.