Maryland Region | ||
2002 Maryland
Maryland's only national championship came in the 2001-2002 season and boasted a starting lineup with four future NBA players. Senior Juan Dixon was the unquestioned leader of the team and Lonny Baxter overcame his lack of height down low (6' 8") with an array of power moves and a strong upper body. The glue that transformed the Terrapins from an ACC contender to a national contender was a transfer from Tulane -- Byron Mouton. In his first year at College Park the Terps advanced to their first Final Four only to suffer a heartbreaking loss to Duke and then in his senior season they beat Indiana for the title. Mouton's impact couldn't be found in the stat book as much as in the intangible energy he brought to the court.
Point Guard
Steve Blake, 8 ppg, 7.9 assists/game
An excellent floor leader, Blake was a superior passer and could hit the clutch shot.
Guard
Juan Dixon, 20.4 ppg, 2.6 steals/game
Stellar at playing the passing lanes, Dixon caused problems with his pressure defense and he was also one of the better shooters in school history.
Guard/Forward
Byron Mouton, 11.1 ppg, 5 rebounds/game
Hustle plays were Mouton's specialty and if the team lacked energy he made sure to increase everyone's intensity.
Forward
Chris Wilcox, 11.9 ppg, 7.1 rebounds/game
A spectactular dunker and inside force who really came on towards the end of his sophomore season.
Center
Lonny Baxter, 15.3 ppg, 2 blocks/game
Baxter used his strength and girth in the paint to push away defenders on his way to the basket.
Rest of the Roster
Guard: Andre Collins
Guard: Earl Badu
Guard: Calvin McCall
Guard: Mike Grinnon
Forward: Tahj Holden
Center: Ryan Randle
