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The Maryland Terrapins just wrapped up one of their best basketball seasons in recent memory. Led by head coach Kevin Willard, the Terps’ starting lineup even earned the nickname The Crab Five, a testament to their tight chemistry. But during the NCAA Tournament, the focus shifted—from the team to Willard himself—foreshadowing the end of his tenure.
Throughout the tournament, Willard publicly criticized the administration during multiple press conferences. His team advanced to the Sweet Sixteen before falling to eventual national champion Florida. The way he handled his impending departure sparked backlash, most notably from Scott Van Pelt.
“We’re savages, but we’re not soulless savages. If it’s better for your family, of course. But maybe you don’t take a giant s*** on the front steps of the house you’ve lived in for the last three years. You don’t do damage to the University and program where you’ve been for three years,” said Van Pelt.
Following Willard’s exit, many Maryland players have entered the transfer portal—a common reaction when a head coach leaves. Fan favorite Julian Reese entered the portal on Tuesday, despite having no remaining eligibility.
Players like Reese are hoping the NCAA will approve a proposed settlement allowing athletes to compete for five years instead of the current four. The uncertainty surrounding the decision is affecting both players and coaches, complicating roster construction across the country.
Reese was so beloved at Maryland that, on senior night, Willard publicly urged fans to show up and make the occasion special for him. Still, not everyone is on board with the current state of the transfer portal. Jeff Goodman expressed his frustration with the trend.
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“Ok, enough of these guys entering the portal with no eligibility,” Goodman wrote.
Now, Reese—along with many others—is waiting to see whether the NCAA will grant them another shot at college basketball next season.
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