The Washington DC Sports Hall of Fame will welcome the 2001‑02 University of Maryland men's basketball team into its Class of 2026, recognizing the Terrapins' sole NCAA championship. The induction ceremony is set for August 30, 2026, at Nationals Park, where the team will be celebrated before the Washington Nationals open their game against the Miami Marlins.
A Milestone Celebration
The event marks the 25th anniversary of Maryland's 64‑52 victory over Indiana, a game that cemented Gary Williams' legacy as the program's first national‑title‑winning coach. The Terrapins finished the season with a 32‑4 record and an unbeaten home slate at Cole Field House, a feat that remains a benchmark for Maryland athletics.
Legacy of the 2001‑02 Terrapins
Led by head coach Gary Williams, the squad featured standout performances from Juan Dixon, who earned the NCAA Tournament's Most Outstanding Player award, and Lonny Baxter, a two‑time Regional Most Outstanding Player. Their dominance was underscored by a perfect home record and a relentless style that defined the era.
Honorees and Their Stories
The ceremony will also honor five additional legends: Tommy Amaker, a standout at Duke and W.T. Woodson High School; Elena Delle Donne, a WNBA MVP and champion; London Fletcher, a longtime NFL Pro Bowler; Elana Meyers Taylor, an Olympic gold medalist; and Al Thomas, a legendary Maryland high school football coach. Each brings a distinct chapter to the region's rich sports tapestry.
The Ceremony at Nationals Park
The induction will take place at 11:00 a.m. on August 30, 2026, with the game's first pitch scheduled for 12:15 p.m. against the Miami Marlins. The program includes special promotions, player appearances, and a series of events that will extend throughout the 2026‑27 season, inviting fans to relive the championship journey.
University of Maryland President Darryll J. Pines, Washington DC Sports Hall of Fame officials, and representatives from the Washington Nationals are expected to attend, underscoring the collaborative effort to celebrate the state's sporting heritage. The induction not only commemorates a historic victory but also inspires future generations of Terrapins.