2001–2002 Maryland Terrapins

The 2001–2002 Maryland Terrapins basketball team had an unforgettable season, culminating in the program’s first-ever NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship. Coached by Gary Williams, the Terrapins were led by a mix of experienced upperclassmen and talented younger players, and their success made a lasting impact on college basketball.

Key Facts from the 2001–2002 Season:

• Record: The Terrapins finished the season with an impressive 32–4 overall record, which was one of the best in college basketball that year.
• Conference: They played in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), one of the most competitive conferences in college basketball.
• Home Games: Maryland played its home games at Cole Field House in College Park, Maryland, which was the home of the Terrapins for decades before it was replaced by the Xfinity Center in 2002.

Leadership and Key Players

• Gary Williams (Head Coach): Williams was in his 13th season as the head coach of Maryland and led the team to its first national title. His leadership, focus on defense, and ability to manage a talented roster were crucial to the team’s success.

• Juan Dixon: Dixon, a guard and the ACC Player of the Year, was the heart and soul of the team. He was known for his scoring ability, defensive prowess, and leadership. Dixon had a standout tournament, earning Final Four Most Outstanding Player honors. He scored 20 points in the national championship game and was a crucial part of the team’s run to the title.

• Chris Wilcox: Wilcox, a forward, was one of the most talented players on the team. He was a dynamic force both offensively and defensively, with excellent rebounding and shot-blocking ability. Wilcox went on to have a successful career in the NBA after his time at Maryland.

• Steve Blake: As the point guard, Blake was the team’s floor general. Known for his court vision, leadership, and decision-making, Blake averaged 6.1 assists per game and was instrumental in running the offense. His leadership was key to Maryland’s success throughout the season.

• LaRon Profit: Profit, a versatile forward, was a key contributor to the team’s depth and success. He provided scoring and defensive support on both ends of the floor and played a pivotal role in Maryland’s balanced attack.

NCAA Tournament Run

The 2002 NCAA Tournament was where the Maryland Terrapins truly shined, with some notable performances:

• First Round to Elite Eight: Maryland easily advanced through the early rounds, defeating teams like South Carolina, UNC Wilmington, and Kentucky in the Sweet 16. Their balanced play and intense defense were major factors in their success.

• Final Four: The Terrapins defeated the Kansas Jayhawks (the No. 1 seed) in the Final Four, a thrilling 97-88 win in overtime. Juan Dixon led the team with 27 points, and the game showcased Maryland’s offensive firepower and resilience in clutch moments.

• National Championship Game: Maryland faced the Indiana Hoosiers in the 2002 NCAA Championship Game on April 1, 2002, at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Georgia. The game was an intense and competitive matchup, but the Terrapins ultimately won 64–52, securing the national title.

  • Juan Dixon scored 18 points in the championship game, and Chris Wilcox added 14 points and 7 rebounds. The Terrapins’ defense and poise under pressure played a major role in securing the victory.
  • This victory marked Maryland’s first national championship in men’s basketball, making them the first ACC team to win a title since North Carolina in 1993.

Legacy

• First NCAA Title: The 2002 Maryland Terrapins became the first team in school history to win an NCAA men’s basketball championship, which solidified their place in college basketball history.

• Gary Williams’ Coaching Legacy: This victory was the pinnacle of Gary Williams’ coaching career at Maryland, affirming his ability to compete at the highest level. He would continue to lead the team for several more seasons, building on the program’s success.

• Juan Dixon’s Legacy: Dixon, the heart of the championship team, became a Maryland basketball legend. He was drafted by the Washington Wizards in the first round of the 2002 NBA Draft, and his performance in the tournament cemented his status as one of the greatest players in Maryland history.

• Cole Field House: The 2002 championship marked the end of an era for Maryland basketball, as Cole Field House would soon be replaced by the Xfinity Center. However, the legacy of the 2002 team and the historic nature of their championship run remains closely tied to the iconic venue.

The 2002 Maryland Terrapins are remembered as one of the greatest teams in college basketball history. Their national championship run, led by Coach Gary Williams, Juan Dixon, and a talented group of players, helped elevate Maryland to the pinnacle of college basketball. The season remains a historic moment for the university and its basketball program, and it continues to be a source of pride for Terrapins fans.