Listen to or read anything outside of the confines of the University of Maryland, and it seems like Gary Williams is on his way out and no one cares. Ask any student at the university, and they wouldn't want any other fist pumping, suit ruining, and future hall of fame coach on the sideline.
After a season in which the Terps men's basketball team fielded a slightly above average team game after game but still went to the ACC Tournament semi-finals, beat three top-10 teams, and got a bid to and won a game in the NCAA Tournament, I would say that Gary Williams may have just coached his best year of basketball.
Sure, the recruiting hasn't been the best lately, but it's on its way up, and you can't sit around and whine about it; and the Terps didn't. They used what they had and went 21-14, playing pretty well in the 2nd hardest conference in the nation. Greivis Vasquez showed that he could be a leader, and made his mark on the Maryland record books (although he could afford to keep his mouth shut a little more often). Sean Mosely showed a lot of promise for the next three years, and was a key defensive player on all opposing posessions. Landon Milbourne perfected the mid-range jumper, posterization dunk, and if he can be consistent next year, he showed that he could be a strong force to be reckoned with in college basketball. Then there were the role players who stepped in when they were asked to, and delivered. Eric Hayes, Cliff Tucker, and Dino Gregory all had solid seasons, although at sometimes it was obvious they were still growing. Think of how much stronger their games will be next year though. And no I didn't forget about The Mayor of College Park, Dave Neal. The fan favorite, and a huge asset for the Terps this year. It is sad to see him go. We love you Dave Neal.
All in all, I am satisfied. I was a slight Doubting Thomas at the beginning of the season, like everyone else; but the Terps proved me wrong. Losing only one senior and gaining solid recruits that should make an impact right away, I am expecting the same if not more from them next year. Everyone needs to stick by Gary. I think he knows what he's doing.
With that said, my bracket stinks, but I still have all of my Final Four teams remaining in Syracuse, Missouri, Pittsburgh, and Louisville. Florida State and West Virginia let me down. Thank you two Maryland rivals. Also, cheer for the Lady Terps. Their looking solid, and how great would it be for Mrs. Freese to bring home another championship to College Park.
BJ and I have big plans for H.U.C. We are going to be working hard to get more and more readers and hopefully grow as a blog and sports source for the Ravens, Orioles, Terps, and any other interesting Baltimore and Maryland sports news. Thank you for reading, and spread the word. Peace and love.
J.F
