Shyanne Sellers dominates as Maryland crushes Rutgers in a decisive victory
- Maryland defeated Iowa with a final score of 74-66, led by Kaylene Smikle's outstanding performance.
- The game featured a significant comeback attempt by Iowa after falling behind by 25 points.
- Maryland is now 14-0 for the season and continues to compete strongly in the Big Ten conference.
On January 4, 2025, the eighth-ranked Maryland Terrapins faced the 23rd-ranked Iowa Hawkeyes in a tightly contested college basketball game in Iowa City, Iowa. Maryland had already established a significant lead of 25 points in the first half, showcasing their offensive strength early on. However, the Hawkeyes rallied back in the second half, slowly chipping away at the lead and bringing the score to within five points several times, causing a surge of enthusiasm among their home crowd. Despite Iowa's efforts, they could not completely close the gap, allowing Maryland to maintain their edge and secure a 74-66 victory. The standout player for Maryland was Kaylene Smikle, who scored 26 points, demonstrating her crucial role in the team's success. Alongside Smikle, Shyanne Sellers contributed 17 points while Bri McDaniel added another 13. On the opposing side, Iowa's Lucy Olsen led her team with 19 points. The game was particularly significant for Iowa as it was an emotional occasion, honoring former head coach Lisa Bluder at halftime. The loss, coupled with the emotional weight of the day, left the Hawkeyes with a sense of disappointment despite their valiant fight in the second half. This game marked Maryland’s fourth consecutive win in Big Ten play, improving their season record to 14-0, an impressive start compared to recent seasons. The Terrapins had displayed remarkable offensive prowess throughout the game, especially in the second quarter where they outscored Iowa 26-12, leading to a solid foundation for their eventual win. As the season progresses, both teams will look to build on their performances, with Maryland aiming to continue their winning streak against high-ranked teams and Iowa seeking to regain momentum in their upcoming games. Maryland's next challenge is against the formidable No. 4 USC, while Iowa gears up for their next matchup against Illinois. These games will be crucial for both teams as they navigate the competitive landscape of the Big Ten conference, looking to solidify their standings and postseason aspirations.