Highlights of the Maryland-Alabama women’s basketball game: Terrapins triumph in a thrilling two-over game

In a game that will be remembered as one of the most dramatic and intense matchups of the season, the University of Maryland Terrapins defeated the Alabama Crimson Tide 90-85 in a double-overtime thriller. The clash, which took place in the early part of the season, featured clutch performances, momentum swings, and a series of unforgettable plays that had fans on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The contest between these two powerhouse teams not only showcased individual brilliance but also demonstrated the heart and grit of both squads.

First Half: A Back-and-Forth Battle

From the opening tip, it was clear this game would be a battle of wills. The first half was an intense back-and-forth affair, with neither team able to establish a significant lead. Alabama came out aggressive, showing off their high-pressure defense and fast-paced offense, which put immediate pressure on Maryland’s backcourt. The Crimson Tide’s defense was particularly effective at forcing turnovers, with Alabama’s guard play constantly hounding Maryland’s ball handlers.

For the Terrapins, junior guard Diamond Miller was the focal point of the offense early. Miller’s speed and ability to create plays for herself and her teammates were on full display. Her quick drives to the basket and smooth jump shot kept the Crimson Tide defenders on their toes. Maryland also had solid contributions from forward Shakira Austin, whose size and presence inside made it difficult for Alabama to score in the paint.

Alabama, however, had their own star performer in Jada Rice, whose aggressive scoring both inside and from long range kept her team in the game. Rice was a constant threat from the perimeter, knocking down several key three-pointers. Alabama’s tempo was controlled by Jasmine Walker, whose playmaking and leadership on the court kept her teammates involved.

At the break, the score was tied at 37-37, and both teams entered the locker room knowing they had yet to hit their stride.

Second Half: A Showdown of Stars

The second half began with both teams coming out of the gate energized and hungry for the win. Maryland’s offense started to click, particularly with the shooting of Katie Benzan. The senior guard’s shooting touch from beyond the arc proved to be a game-changer. Benzan knocked down back-to-back three-pointers early in the second half, giving the Terrapins a brief lead.

Alabama’s response came through Jordan Lewis, whose leadership on both ends of the floor helped Alabama to respond. Lewis was instrumental in pushing the pace and finding open looks for her teammates. She also attacked the basket relentlessly, earning multiple trips to the free-throw line and keeping the Crimson Tide within striking distance.

Despite several strong scoring runs by both teams, neither was able to pull away. The teams exchanged leads multiple times, with key players like Miller, Rice, and Walker stepping up to make huge plays. The back-and-forth nature of the game culminated with just minutes left in regulation.

With only seconds remaining in the fourth quarter, Diamond Miller had a chance to win the game for Maryland. With the Terrapins trailing by one point, Miller drove to the basket, drawing a foul in the process. She stepped up to the line with two free throws that could potentially send the game into overtime. The arena held its collective breath as Miller sank the first free throw to tie the game at 74-74. The second free throw, however, bounced off the rim, and the game was forced into overtime.

Overtime 1: The Drama Builds

The first overtime period proved to be as intense as the regulation period. Both teams showed fatigue but continued to battle hard. Maryland’s defense started to tighten, with Austin and Miller locking down key players on Alabama’s side. However, Alabama’s Rice wasn’t done yet, hitting a clutch jumper to give her team a slim 79-77 advantage with less than a minute remaining.

With the clock winding down, Maryland’s Benzan responded with a three-pointer that put the Terrapins back in the driver’s seat at 80-79. But just when it seemed that Maryland had the upper hand, Jasmine Walker drilled a quick jumper for Alabama to regain the lead 81-80 with just seconds left on the clock.

With the final possession of the first overtime, Miller drove again to the basket but was fouled with 2.2 seconds left. The Terrapins’ star guard, who had already been clutch earlier in the game, calmly sank both free throws to give Maryland an 82-81 lead. Alabama’s attempt at a last-second shot was blocked, and the game proceeded to a second overtime.

Overtime 2: The Final Push

The second overtime period was a test of endurance and composure for both teams. The crowd could feel the tension as both teams, clearly worn from the extended battle, fought for every point. Miller, who had been superb throughout, played like a seasoned veteran, even in the extra minutes. She drained key mid-range shots and hit timely assists to teammates, including Austin, who capitalized on an easy basket in the post.

Alabama’s Rice and Lewis continued to battle back, but their fatigue was evident. With Maryland leading by a slim margin, it was Miller’s final dagger — a contested three-pointer from the top of the arc with less than a minute remaining — that sealed the game for the Terrapins. Alabama’s final attempts to close the gap fell short, and Maryland emerged victorious with a final score of 90-85.

Postgame: Players Reflect on the Victory

After the game, Maryland head coach Brenda Frese praised her team for their resilience and grit in a game that tested their physical and mental limits. “We knew Alabama was going to bring it tonight,” Frese said. “They’re a talented team, and they pushed us to our very best. But I’m proud of how our team responded — especially Diamond Miller, who carried us in so many critical moments.”

Miller, who finished with a game-high 28 points and 7 assists, reflected on the battle. “This was one of those games where you have to dig deep and never give up,” Miller said. “Alabama played a great game, but we just kept fighting and believing in each other. It feels amazing to get this win, but we know we can’t rest on this. We have to keep improving.”

For Alabama, head coach Kristy Curry acknowledged her team’s effort despite the loss. “I’m so proud of how hard our girls fought tonight,” Curry said. “We were right there, but sometimes the game just doesn’t go your way. We’ll learn from this and get better. We’re not far off.”

Key Players of the Game

• Diamond Miller (Maryland) – With 28 points and 7 assists, Miller was the clear standout of the game. She was unguardable in clutch moments and was the driving force behind Maryland’s offense. Her leadership, especially in overtime, made the difference.
• Jada Rice (Alabama) – Rice finished with 22 points and was a constant scoring threat for the Crimson Tide. She hit several key shots, including long-range threes, and kept Alabama in the game.
• Shakira Austin (Maryland) – Austin was a force inside, finishing with 15 points and 12 rebounds, while providing an important defensive presence in both regulation and overtime.
• Jordan Lewis (Alabama) – Lewis contributed 18 points and was instrumental in keeping Alabama in the game. Her playmaking and decision-making under pressure were critical in both overtime periods.

Looking Ahead

As the Terrapins celebrated their hard-fought victory, it was clear that this game would be a major confidence booster as they moved forward in the season. Maryland’s ability to withstand the intense pressure and come out on top in a double-overtime thriller proves that they are a team to be reckoned with in the NCAA tournament picture.

For Alabama, the loss was heartbreaking, but it provided valuable lessons for a young team with a lot of potential. If they can build on this performance, they’ll be a force to reckon with in the SEC and beyond.

This game was a perfect illustration of the heart and determination that defines college basketball. With both teams playing at a high level and never backing down, it was the fans who truly came out as the winners in this unforgettable matchup.