The 2011 ACC Tournament got underway on Thursday, and it featured four matchups that might not immediately catch your attention. That is, of course, unless you are a fan of the Maryland Terrapins, and your team's NCAA Tournament hopes rely on the Terps winning the whole thing. Then their game against N.C. State on Thursday is an important first step, however improbable the destination may be.
The Terps played against the Wolfpack just about two weeks ago, and even though it wasn't the easiest win ever, they were still able to pull out an 87-80 victory. But that was on their home court, and they won't have that advantage. This is a neutral court in Greensboro, but it is in North Carolina, so the Wolfpack might travel a little bit better than the Terps. What say you, Testudo Times?
Gary Williams teams don't quit. I don't know if the same can be said about Sidney Lowe's squad. Of course, now that I'm thinking this, N.C. State will run away with it. For now, I'm thinking Maryland gets a much-needed win; just don't go reading too much into it. Maryland by 6.
Their keys to the game are Maryland's senior leadership, forcing North Carolina St. to the perimeter, and just plain showing up. If the Terps play hard and play well, they have the talent to advance rather easily. But they haven't always been able to do that this year. Let's hope they can put it all together today.