In a thrilling finish on March 24, 2025, Maryland’s Derik Queen hit a buzzer-beater to secure a 72-71 victory over Colorado State. This win marks Maryland’s first trip to the Sweet 16 since 2016. Can you believe the excitement of March Madness?
- Maryland reaches Sweet 16 for first time since 2016.
- Derik Queen hits buzzer-beater fadeaway jumper.
- Coach Willard praises Queen's confidence and positivity.
- Maryland overcame a 12-point first-half deficit.
- Jalen Lake's three-pointer gave Rams brief lead.
- Reese achieves 1,000th career rebound milestone.
Maryland’s Derik Queen Shines in March Madness Victory
How does a freshman handle the pressure of a last-second shot? Derik Queen showed US how on Sunday. With only 3.6 seconds left and Maryland trailing, he confidently called for the ball and delivered a fadeaway jumper that sent the crowd into a frenzy. This moment not only secured the win but also highlighted the thrilling nature of March Madness.
Key Moments from Maryland’s Sweet 16-Bound Game
Maryland’s journey to the Sweet 16 was filled with nail-biting moments. After trailing by 12 points in the first half, the Terrapins rallied back, demonstrating their grit and teamwork. Here are some highlights:
- Derik Queen’s game-winning shot at the buzzer.
- Rodney Rice’s crucial free throws that helped Maryland take the lead.
- Jalen Lake’s three-pointer that briefly gave Colorado State the advantage.
- Maryland’s strong second-half performance, leveraging their height advantage.
Derik Queen: The Freshman Hero of March Madness
Derik Queen’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary. Standing at 6-foot-10, he not only made the game-winning shot but also led the team with 17 points. His confidence and skill shone through when it mattered most. Queen’s ability to perform under pressure is a testament to his potential as a future star in college basketball.
Maryland’s Road to the Sweet 16: A Team Effort
This victory wasn’t just about one player; it was a collective effort from the entire team. Each starter contributed significantly, with Rodney Rice scoring 16 points and Julian Reese adding 15 points and 11 rebounds. The teamwork displayed by the “Crab Five” was crucial in overcoming Colorado State’s challenge.
What’s Next for Maryland in the NCAA Tournament?
As Maryland advances to face Florida, fans are eager to see if they can continue their momentum. With the Sweet 16 on the horizon, the stakes are higher than ever. Can they capitalize on their recent success and make a deep tournament run? Only time will tell!
In conclusion, Derik Queen’s buzzer-beater not only secured a thrilling win for Maryland but also reignited the excitement of March Madness. As fans eagerly await the next round, the Terrapins have proven that they are a force to be reckoned with in this year’s tournament.
