Grand Canyon vs. Maryland March Madness Preview and Prediction
In the No. 13 vs. No. 4 matchup in the NCAA Tournament West Region, the Grand Canyon Antelopes face the Maryland Terrapins in first-round action.
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How to Watch Grand Canyon vs. Maryland
When: 4:35 p.m. ET on Friday, March 21st
Where: Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, Washington
Watch: TBS
Odds for Grand Canyon vs. Maryland
(odds current at time of publish)
Spread: Maryland -11.5 (-105), Grand Canyon +11.5 (-115)
Total: Over 149.5 (-110), Under 149.5 (-110)
DraftKings Betting Splits | Live College Basketball Odds | Grand Canyon vs. Maryland Matchup Page
Grand Canyon vs. Maryland Preview & Prediction
Maryland enters the NCAA Tournament with a formidable starting five but faces potential depth issues as the tournament progresses. Kevin Willard’s team boasts a top-10 defensive efficiency ranking according to KenPom, complemented by a top-30 offense. The Terps excel in key statistical areas, including 3P% offense, 2P% defense, and 3P% defense, positioning them to compete with most teams in the field. However, their lack of depth and weak non-conference schedule raise questions about their ability to handle diverse competition.
Having played one of the weakest non-conference schedules among Power Five teams, Maryland’s adaptability to different playing styles remains uncertain. While they are likely to handle Grand Canyon in the first round, potential matchups like Florida in the Sweet 16 could pose challenges. Willard’s limited March coaching experience adds another layer of uncertainty, though this year’s team is arguably his strongest.
Grand Canyon, making its third consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance as WAC Tournament champions, enters the competition with momentum. Following last year’s 12/5 upset over Saint Mary’s, the Antelopes return with a similar team playing at a faster pace. Their defensive strength is evident in their top-25 ranking in 2P% defense and solid performance against 3-pointers. However, their offense struggles with efficiency, particularly in turnovers and 3-point shooting.
The health of Tyon Grant-Foster, averaging 14.8 points and six rebounds per game, could be pivotal for Grand Canyon’s success. The Antelopes will aim to disrupt Maryland’s offense but face challenges in the turnover battle and perimeter shooting. Maryland’s defense could impede Grand Canyon’s fast-paced style, and while the Antelopes may try to dominate inside, the matchup generally favors the Terps. Grand Canyon’s best chance lies in controlling the tempo and relying on their defense, but Maryland’s superior talent is expected to prevail in this first-round encounter.
Estimated Score: Maryland 81, Grand Canyon 69
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