Imagine stepping onto the court where champions are made—Maryland's women's basketball team is throwing open the doors for an exclusive fan experience that could redefine your love for the game! But here's where it gets exciting: this isn't just any practice; it's your chance to witness the magic up close and personal.
On Saturday, October 18, the Terrapins will host an Open Practice at the XFINITY Center in College Park, Maryland. Fans of all ages are warmly invited to join in, and to make sure you don't miss out, be sure to RSVP right here (https://app.umterps.com/LP=563?utmmedium=email&elqcid=25226&RSRC=Email&RDAT=3814&ehash=4be14831dd33d78c3ec26423185a8253cf34e9d1570734f2802e6604c1012788&aid=16093&pid=marylandemaileloqua_eloqua&rid=3814&elqTrackId=C20214AAF2D767732C81CBB391F2A94A&elq=d1377b1926c64e0ea5f1a84d4eb727b0&elqaid=3814&elqat=1&elqCampaignId=3293&elqak=8AF533DD6CD8823A7EFFBFEC663E54DEE0796E5C5F86575C9AA5E2501D44A5101C9B). Doors will swing open at 1 p.m., and for those driving in, parking is available in lots 9B, 4B, and 11B—perfect for a hassle-free arrival.
And this is the part most people miss: Head coach Brenda Frese (https://umterps.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/brenda-frese/2295) will be mic'd up during the scrimmage, giving you an insider's view into the strategies and plays that could shape the season. Plus, stick around for a lively post-practice Q&A session where fans can interact directly with the team, asking questions and getting to know the players behind the jerseys. It's an opportunity like no other to connect with the heart of Maryland basketball.
Speaking of the team, Maryland is buzzing with anticipation after being forecasted to finish second in the Big Ten Conference, trailing only UCLA. For beginners wondering what that means, the Big Ten is one of the top collegiate sports leagues in the U.S., known for its competitive women's basketball programs that often produce NBA stars and Olympic athletes. This prediction highlights the Terrapins' potential, but here's where it gets controversial: Can they really challenge UCLA's dominance, or is this just preseason hype? Some fans argue that rankings are subjective and don't account for unproven talent, while others see it as a bold statement of Maryland's rising star.
The squad boasts impressive returning talent, including seniors Yarden Garzon (https://umterps.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/yarden-garzon/14823) and Kaylene Smikle (https://umterps.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/kaylene-smikle/12714), both honored on the All-Big Ten Preseason Team. They'll be joined by All-Big Ten honoree Bri McDaniel (https://umterps.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/bri-mcdaniel/12701) and starter Saylor Poffenbarger (https://umterps.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/saylor-poffenbarger/12717), who bring experience and skill to the court. Under the guidance of Coach Frese (https://umterps.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/brenda-frese/2483), the team has added dynamic transfers like Garzon and Oluchi Okananwa (https://umterps.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/oluchi-okananwa/14826), the 2025 ACC Tournament Most Outstanding Player from Duke. Transfers like these can spark debate—do they instantly elevate a team, or do they need time to gel with the existing roster? It's a hot topic among basketball enthusiasts.
Fresh faces are also making waves, with newcomers Lea Bartelme (https://umterps.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/lea-bartelme/14825), Addi Mack (https://umterps.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/addi-mack/14821), Rainey Welson (https://umterps.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/rainey-welson/14822), Nicole Fritea (https://umterps.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/nicole-fritea/15034), and Marya Boiko (https://umterps.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/marya-boiko/15035) stepping onto the scene. These rookies represent the future, and it's fascinating to think about how they'll blend with the veterans—will they bring fresh energy, or face challenges adapting to the college level?
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Players Mentioned
Players Mentioned
What do you think—will Maryland's mix of experience and new talent lead them to the top of the Big Ten, or is the preseason ranking setting them up for disappointment? Do transfers really change the game, or is it all about team chemistry? Share your opinions in the comments below; we'd love to hear your take!
