Maryland will welcome South Carolina to the CFG Bank Arena in Baltimore on Dec. 19, 2026, for a nonconference basketball game that marks the first meeting between the two programs in more than two decades. The contest arrives as part of Maryland's 2026‑27 nonconference schedule, which also features matchups against Georgetown, Virginia and Tennessee.
The rivalry between the Terrapins and the Gamecocks stretches back to the 1924‑25 season, with Maryland holding a 31‑27 edge in the all‑time series. South Carolina's most recent victory over Maryland came in the 2005 NIT Semifinals, a reminder of the competitive balance that has defined their meetings over the years.
A Renewed Rivalry
For Maryland, the game represents more than just a nod to history; it is a chance to showcase the progress made under Buzz Williams, who is entering his second season as head coach. Williams has assembled a top‑14 recruiting class, highlighted by five‑star freshman Baba Oladotun, who starred at James Hubert Blake High School in Silver Spring.
Williams' vision emphasizes elevating the program's national profile, and the upcoming contest against South Carolina serves as an early benchmark. The Terps hope to translate their strong recruiting haul into on‑court chemistry that can compete with a program that has historically been a formidable opponent.
The nonconference slate also includes games against traditional rivals Georgetown and Virginia, as well as a trip to Tennessee, providing a varied testing ground for Williams' system. Each of these matchups is designed to challenge the team and prepare it for the rigors of conference play.