In a remarkable display of resilience and determination, the Maryland men's basketball team secured an impressive 79-61 victory over the No. 22 ranked UCLA Bruins at Xfinity Center on Friday night. The Terps, who had been struggling with late-game collapses, managed to pull ahead in the final minutes thanks to a series of strategic plays and key contributions from their players. This win not only ended a two-game losing streak but also marked their first victory against a ranked opponent this season. With standout performances from Ja’Kobi Gillespie and Julian Reese, Maryland showcased its potential to make waves in the national conversation.

The game’s turning point came when UCLA head coach Mick Cronin was ejected after receiving two technical fouls, leading to four free throws for the Terps. Gillespie capitalized on the opportunity, hitting all four shots and extending Maryland’s lead to 15 points with less than five minutes remaining. The momentum shift proved too much for UCLA to overcome, as they struggled without their coach’s guidance. Gillespie’s career-high 27 points and four steals were instrumental in securing the win, while Reese added 16 points and 10 rebounds.

The first half was characterized by intense back-and-forth action, with both teams trading baskets and maintaining a competitive edge. UCLA forward Tyler Bilodeau emerged as a formidable force, scoring 14 points in the first half alone. However, Gillespie’s offensive prowess kept the Terps ahead, contributing 16 points and leading his team to a narrow four-point advantage at halftime. Despite UCLA’s dominance in rebounding, Maryland’s shooting efficiency—51.7% from the field and 44% from beyond the arc—kept them in control.

In the second half, Maryland’s defense tightened, holding UCLA to just 11 points through the first 11 minutes. The Bruins faced a scoring drought that allowed the Terps to extend their lead significantly. Bilodeau, who had been a thorn in Maryland’s side earlier, went scoreless during this stretch. Although he briefly regained his form with a turnaround jumper, it wasn’t enough to turn the tide. Without Bilodeau’s scoring punch in the final seven minutes, UCLA couldn’t mount a comeback, ultimately falling short against the Terps.

The victory over UCLA is more than just a win for Maryland—it’s a statement. After narrowly losing to several ranked opponents earlier in the season, the Terps demonstrated their ability to close out games under pressure. As they prepare for future challenges, including a road game against No. 13 Illinois, this win could serve as a confidence booster. Additionally, the team’s rotation remains a work in progress, with Coach Kevin Willard still experimenting with different lineups to find the most effective combination. While some players like freshman Malachi Palmer saw increased playing time, others like Derik Queen struggled with consistency, posting eight points and five turnovers. Nonetheless, the Terps have shown they can rise to the occasion when it matters most.