Buzz Williams Takes the Helm at Maryland: A Seasoned Coach with a Track Record of Success Looks to Usher in a New Era of Terps Basketball By Don Lichterman
In a monumental shift for Maryland Men’s Basketball, Buzz Williams has been named the new head coach, succeeding Kevin Willard in a move that signals a bold new direction for the program. The announcement was made by Colleen Sorem, Interim Barry P. Gossett Director of Athletics, who confirmed that Williams will be formally introduced in a press conference at noon on April 2 on the main court at XFINITY Center.
With 18 years of head coaching experience, Williams boasts an impressive resume, having led his teams to 11 NCAA Tournament appearances and 13 seasons with at least 20 wins. His arrival in College Park has ignited excitement among fans eager to see what the accomplished coach can bring to the Terps.
Williams’ Enthusiasm for the Role
“It is an honor and privilege to be named the head coach of the University of Maryland men’s basketball team,” Williams expressed. “I want to thank President Pines and Colleen Sorem for this opportunity to lead one of the most prestigious programs in the country. In leading this program, I promise to uphold the history of Maryland basketball and make Terp Nation proud with the men who represent this institution.”
Sorem echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Williams’ stellar track record and relentless work ethic. “We are thrilled to bring a coach of the caliber of Buzz Williams to the University of Maryland,” she said. “His incredible record of success at three prominent basketball programs speaks for itself, but we were equally impressed with his tireless work ethic and his dedication to building a program the right way. He embraces the high expectations here at Maryland and we are all excited to get started on this new era in Maryland basketball.”
A Winning Pedigree
Before joining Maryland, Williams spent six seasons as the head coach at Texas A&M, where he led the Aggies to the NCAA Tournament in each of the last three seasons. Twice named SEC Coach of the Year (2019-20 and 2022-23), he has also previously held head coaching positions at Virginia Tech (2014-19), Marquette (2008-14), and New Orleans (2006-07). Across his 18 seasons, he has amassed a career record of 373-228 (.621), demonstrating his ability to build and sustain winning programs.
Williams is on the verge of joining an exclusive coaching fraternity as he aims to become just the third Division I coach to secure at least 100 wins at four different institutions. Legendary Maryland coach Lefty Driesell and Steve Alford are the only others to have accomplished this feat. Last season, he led Texas A&M to a 23-11 record and an NCAA Tournament Second Round appearance, further cementing his status as a top-tier coach.
A Proven Leader in the NCAA Tournament
Williams has made his mark in the postseason, with his teams advancing to the NCAA Tournament 11 times, including four Sweet 16 appearances (three with Marquette and one with Virginia Tech) and one Elite Eight run with Marquette in 2013. His deep understanding of high-pressure games and strategic coaching have made him one of the most respected figures in college basketball.
His teams have won an average of nearly 21 games per season, and despite coaching in highly competitive conferences, Williams’ programs have had just two losing conference records—his first season at Virginia Tech and the pandemic-affected 2020-21 season at Texas A&M. His ability to compete at the highest level, even against formidable opposition, is a testament to his coaching acumen.
Impact Beyond the Court
Williams’ impact extends beyond wins and losses. He has a well-earned reputation for developing players, with over 20 all-conference selections and 16 NBA players emerging from his programs. His influence on player development and leadership has made him an asset to every program he has led.
Moreover, Williams has made significant contributions off the court, notably through “Buzz’s Bunch,” a program designed to connect young people with special needs to basketball. What began at Marquette has grown to include over 500 members spanning multiple cities, providing meaningful experiences for children and families. Additionally, Williams and his wife, Corey, have endowed multiple scholarships at Virginia Tech and Texas A&M, ensuring long-term educational opportunities for students with disabilities and female student-athletes.
Looking Ahead to the Future at Maryland
As Maryland transitions to this new era under Williams, expectations are high. The departure of key players, including Julian Reese, poses challenges, but Williams has a history of rebuilding programs and quickly elevating them to national prominence. His extensive recruiting experience and strategic leadership will be critical in shaping the future of Maryland basketball.
Williams’ coaching journey—from his humble beginnings as a student assistant at Navarro College to becoming one of the most respected head coaches in the nation—reflects his relentless determination and passion for the game. His nickname, “Buzz,” stems from his high-energy approach, which he continues to bring to every program he leads.
As the Terps prepare for the upcoming season, fans and players alike eagerly anticipate the transformation that Williams will bring to College Park. With a history of excellence, a commitment to development, and a track record of success, Buzz Williams is set to make a lasting impact on Maryland basketball, ushering in a new chapter of competitiveness and excitement for Terp Nation.
In an unexpected yet highly anticipated move, Buzz Williams has been named the new head coach of the Maryland Men’s Basketball program, replacing Kevin Willard, whose departure left the fan base in shock. The announcement was made by Colleen Sorem, Interim Barry P. Gossett Director of Athletics, confirming that Williams will be introduced at a press conference on April 2 at XFINITY Center.
With past coaching stints at Texas A&M, Virginia Tech, Marquette, and New Orleans, Williams has built a reputation for success. He was named SEC Coach of the Year twice and holds an overall record of 373-228 (.621).
Rebuilding a Program
Maryland President Darryll J. Pines emphasized Williams’ ability to develop talent both on and off the court: “Finding the right person to lead Maryland Men’s Basketball was critical to the continued success of our program. With an exemplary record of competitive success and a demonstrated commitment to leadership and development, Coach Buzz Williams is the ideal coach to lead us forward.”
While Willard’s sudden departure left many fans reeling, the arrival of Williams offers a fresh start. With Julian Reese leaving and other potential roster changes on the horizon, Williams has a major challenge ahead in stabilizing the team and re-establishing Maryland as a Big Ten powerhouse.
Don Lichterman’s Signature Collection: A Tribute to Maryland Basketball History
As the Terps welcome a new era, basketball memorabilia collectors have something to celebrate—Don Lichterman has unveiled his Signature Collection, featuring historic pieces from Maryland’s championship legacy. This exclusive collection includes a University of Maryland Championship Team signed basketball and pieces of the iconic Cole Field House floor signed by legendary coaches Lefty Driesell and Gary Williams.
Driesell, known for revolutionizing Maryland basketball, and Gary Williams, who led the Terps to their first national championship in 2002, remain two of the most revered figures in program history. The collection is a must-have for any Terps fan, offering a tangible connection to the rich history of Maryland basketball.
From Cory Booker’s record-breaking speech to Buzz Williams’ arrival and the unveiling of a historic memorabilia collection, this has been a monumental time in politics and sports. New Jersey and Maryland alike are witnessing moments of transformation, and as these stories unfold, fans and citizens alike will watch with anticipation. The next chapter for both Booker and Maryland basketball promises to be one for the history books.
Williams’ Career Head Coaching Record:
| Year | School | W-L | Pct. | W-L | Pct. | Stand | Postseason | AP High | AP Final |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2006-07 | New Orleans | 14-17 | .452 | 9-9 | .500 | 4th/W | |||
| 2008-09 | Marquette | 25-10 | .714 | 12-6 | .667 | 5th | NCAA 2nd Round | 8 | 23 |
| 2009-10 | Marquette | 22-12 | .647 | 11-7 | .611 | 5th | NCAA 1st Round | ||
| 2010-11 | Marquette | 22-15 | .595 | 9-9 | .500 | T-9th | NCAA Sweet 16 | ||
| 2011-12 | Marquette | 27-8 | .771 | 14-4 | .778 | 2nd | NCAA Sweet 16 | 8 | 11 |
| 2012-13 | Marquette | 26-9 | .743 | 14-4 | .778 | T-1st | NCAA Elite Eight | 12 | 15 |
| 2013-14 | Marquette | 17-15 | .531 | 9-9 | .500 | 6th | 17 | ||
| 2014-15 | Virginia Tech | 11-22 | .333 | 2-16 | .111 | 15th | |||
| 2015-16 | Virginia Tech | 20-15 | .571 | 10-8 | .556 | T-7th | NIT 2nd Round | ||
| 2016-17 | Virginia Tech | 22-11 | .667 | 10-8 | .556 | T-7th | NCAA 1st Round | 21 | |
| 2017-18 | Virginia Tech | 21-12 | .636 | 10-8 | .556 | 7th | NCAA 1st Round | ||
| 2018-19 | Virginia Tech | 26-9 | .743 | 12-6 | .667 | 5th | NCAA Sweet 16 | 9 | 16 |
| 2019-20 | Texas A&M | 16-14 | .533 | 10-8 | .556 | T-6th | |||
| 2020-21 | Texas A&M | 8-10 | .444 | 2-8 | .200 | 14th | |||
| 2021-22 | Texas A&M | 27-13 | .675 | 9-9 | .500 | T-5th | NIT Finalist | ||
| 2022-23 | Texas A&M | 25-10 | .714 | 15-3 | .833 | 2nd | NCAA 1st Round | 17 | 17 |
| 2023-24 | Texas A&M | 21-15 | .583 | 9-9 | .500 | T-7th | NCAA 2nd Round | 12 | |
| 2024-25 | Texas A&M | 23-11 | .676 | 11-7 | .611 | 5th | NCAA 2nd Round | 7 | |
| Totals | 18 Years | 373-228 | .621 | 178-138 | .563 | 13 Appearances (11 NCAA) |