A challenging road ahead
The Terrapins have released a non‑conference schedule that pits them against some of the nation’s elite programs. The season opens in Paris on November 2 against South Carolina, the defending national runner‑up, setting a high bar for the early tests.
A marquee showdown follows on December 5 in Brooklyn, where Maryland will meet UConn as part of the Women's Champions Classic. The game promises another marquee attraction for the program.
Before Thanksgiving, the Terps will host five home contests, including matchups against George Mason, Columbia, Coppin State, Morgan State and Monmouth. These games provide an opportunity to build momentum on familiar ground.
The Thanksgiving weekend takes the team to Towson, where they will face Laura Harper, a former Maryland star who now coaches the Tigers. The encounter adds a personal storyline to the schedule.
Ball State visits on December 1, linking the game to Brenda Frese’s early coaching roots at the institution. The contest underscores the connections that have shaped the current roster.
After the UConn clash, Maryland closes its non‑conference slate with home games against Lehigh, Mount St. Mary's and UMBC. The previously scheduled Duke rematch has been pushed back to 2027, and the team will miss its traditional Field Trip Day game against UMBC in December.
The roster returns three All‑Big Ten honorees — Bri McDaniel, Oluchi Okananwa and Addi Mack — who helped the team finish 24‑9 last season and reach the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Their experience forms the backbone of what coaches describe as the deepest squad since the 2015 Final Four team.
Adding to the depth, Stanford transfer Nunu Agara brings a strong résumé, averaging 15.3 points and 8.7 rebounds as a junior and earning Naismith Award watch‑list recognition. Agara, a Hopkins High School product in Minneapolis who also medaled with Team USA at the 2022 FIBA U17 Women's World Cup, provides both scoring and rebounding versatility.
The coaching staff also welcomed guard Chloe Sotell and signed a freshman class highlighted by Jordyn Jackson, Trinity Jones, Mimi Thiero and Eva‑Grace Yebila. The blend of returning veterans and new talent positions Maryland to compete aggressively across its demanding schedule.