Terps refuse to look ahead

“Now that we’re older and more mature, we see that talent doesn’t just win games,” Langhorne said. “You have to play hard and beat everybody on talent and energy.”

[1] Maryland (30-3) vs. [16] Coppin State (22-11)

2:30, ESPN, Comcast Center

Breaking down Maryland

The Terrapins are as talented as any team in the country. Their starting lineup features four of the 15 players on the three All-ACC teams: seniors Crystal Langhorne and Laura Harper and juniors Marissa Coleman and Kristi Toliver. All four average double figures in points, led by Toliver’s 16.8 a game. Langhorne, the ACC player of the year, pours in 16.7.

Because of their balance and versatility, Maryland is a handful for any defense. The Terps can score from inside or out, and they take advantage of their athleticism by running as much as they can. At their best, the Terps make their opponents try to match their uptempo style, forcing them into turnovers and quick shots. That fuels fast breaks and easy baskets for Maryland’s high-powered offense.

Breaking down Coppin State

Strong veteran perimeter play anchors Coppin State. Senior guards Rashida Suber and Shalamar Oakley are the top two Eagles in both scoring and minutes played. Suber, who leads the team in scoring (17.6), hit the game-winning shot against North Carolina A&T; in the MEAC tournament championship.

This is the Eagles’ third tournament appearance in four years. They have won 16 of their last 17 games and hope to improve upon their last tournament game against an ACC team, a 97-62 loss to North Carolina in 2005.

Matchup to watch

Maryland G Kristi Toliver vs. Coppin State G Shalamar Oakley:

Both are quick, athletic floor leaders who key their teams’ offenses. Oakley’s play will be critical for the Eagles. She earned the conference player of the year honors after scoring 17.4 points a game and leading the Eagles with 133 assists.

Prediction: The Terps will be too much to handle for the Eagles and will roll 85-63.