Maryland Makes Program History With Upset Over No. 17 Minnesota

Maryland's victory over Minnesota marks the first time in program history they have three road wins over ranked teams in one season.

Maryland's commanding 63–49 victory over No. 17 Minnesota marks the first time in program history that the Terrapins have tallied three road wins over ranked teams in one season.

Despite its current substandard 9-7 (3-6 Big Ten) record, Maryland has won games at Wisconsin, Illinois and now, Minnesota—the Gophers' first loss at home this year.

.@TerrapinHoops does it again! 😮

Maryland picks up its third Top 20 road win of the season and snaps Minnesota's undefeated record at home: pic.twitter.com/Ure94d9FwN

— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) January 23, 2021

The Terps managed to hold Minnesota to 30.4% shooting from the field, its second-worst shooting performance this season in conference play. Meanwhile, Maryland hit 42.2% from the field and went 8-for-23 from three. 

Maryland didn't trail on Saturday, despite having a rather poor offensive showing. The Terps shot 28.6% in the second half but held Minnesota to 22.7% from the field.

Guard Eric Ayala led the way for Maryland with his 21-point performance and sophomore forward Donta Scott (15 points, 11 rebounds) recorded his third career double-double.

Eric Ayala (@EA_Glo) grew up in Wilmington, Delaware, a city known for its crime.

The @TerrapinHoops G had to do it without a father -- or even a father figure -- in his life.

"Basketball has definitely been a life-saver for me."

Fueled by @Gatorade pic.twitter.com/JSRaEKsYOs

— Maryland On BTN (@MarylandOnBTN) January 23, 2021

The two helped their team potentially re-enter the NCAA Tournament conversation. According to ESPN's Joe Lunardi, the Terps were on the outside looking in prior to their win over Minnesota, a team he slates as a tournament lock. Maryland was listed as one of the first four teams out.

However, according to The Washington Post's Emily Giambalvo, Maryland moved from No. 52 to No. 41 in the KenPom rankings after its win Saturday.