The University of Maryland’s men’s basketball program has released its non‑conference schedule, highlighting a much‑anticipated matchup against South Carolina on December 19 at CFG Bank Arena in Baltimore. The game marks the first meeting between the two schools since March 29, 2005 and will be the 59th overall in a series that Maryland leads 31‑27.
Historic Rivalry Returns
The Terps and Gamecocks were conference rivals in the Southern Conference and the Atlantic Coast Conference from 1925 through 1971, producing several memorable contests, including a 31‑30 overtime victory for Maryland on January 9, 1971 that was capped by Jim O’Brien’s buzzer‑beating jumper.
That win, which gave Lefty Driesell his first triumph over a ranked opponent, also introduced his now‑famous slow-down strategy after a contentious earlier meeting that season. The upcoming Baltimore encounter will be the first ever played in that city, adding a new chapter to a rivalry that once defined college basketball's early landscape.
25‑Year Championship Celebration
Beyond the South Carolina game, Maryland will also host a slate of other non‑conference opponents at XFINITY Center, including Illinois, Indiana, Michigan State, Minnesota, Nebraska, Northwestern, Rutgers, UCLA, USC and Wisconsin, while traveling to Georgetown, Virginia and the Players Era Tournament opener against Tennessee.
The 2026‑27 season will also serve as a 25‑year anniversary celebration of the Terps’ 2002 NCAA championship, with home games featuring special promotions, giveaways, player appearances and autograph sessions throughout the year.
Broadcast and Community Partners
Season tickets are currently on sale through the university’s ticket portal, and all games will be broadcast on the Maryland Sports Radio Network with the legendary Voice of the Terps — Johnny Holliday, Chris Knoche and Walt Williams — calling the action. The university also announced a partnership with Northrop Realty, a local real estate firm, to support community outreach initiatives.