Five takeaways from UVA basketball’s 87-83 comeback win at Maryland
Analyzing Virginia's rally from 11 down at the half to beat the Terrapins in its first true road game of the season.
Three days after a 34-point victory against Bucknell, No. 6 Virginia faced Maryland for the first time this season on a Friday night at College Park in their fifth game in 11. As DraftKings opened Virginia as a 6.5-point favorite, the line shifted to 5.5 by tip-off.
For the first 20 minutes, Virginia struggled, turning the ball over eight times and allowing Maryland 24 free throws. The Terrapins took a 47-36 lead at halftime. However, Virginia made a remarkable turnaround, shooting 20-of-26 in the second half, outscoring Maryland 51-36 and taking their first lead since early in the first half on a Chance Mallory three-pointer.
Despite playing poorly in the first half, Virginia's composure in the second half proved crucial. Sam Lewis had a career-high 28 points, 7 rebounds, 1 block, and 4-for-4 from the free-throw line, while Thijs De Ridder contributed 15 points and a block. Their strong defense, particularly on the glass and in pick-and-roll situations, played a significant role in the comeback.
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