ANNAPOLIS, Md. — In a decisive showing, Saylor Poffenbarger recorded a double-double with 19 points and 10 rebounds, while Kaylene Smikle added 17 points, leading No. 10 Maryland to a 92-70 victory against Toledo during the Navy Classic on Sunday.
The Terrapins improved their season record to 8-0 and maintained a commanding style of play, shooting an impressive 60.3% from the field. This unbeaten start marks the best for Maryland since the 2018-19 season, when they won their first 12 games.
For the Rockets, who now sit at 4-2, Nan Garcia contributed 13 points. The Terps quickly established control by scoring the game’s first eight points, but Toledo fought back, managing to tie the game at 19. After leading 25-21 at the end of the first quarter, Maryland extended its advantage to 51-33 heading into halftime.
In this matchup, the Rockets proved more competitive than in their earlier encounter against a Big Ten opponent, where they suffered a 94-57 defeat to Iowa. However, they continued to face difficulties against Maryland’s size, resulting in the end of their three-game winning streak.
Maryland’s performance contrasted sharply with their previous game on Saturday when they found themselves trailing in the fourth quarter against George Mason before ultimately winning 66-56.
A pivotal moment occurred late in the second quarter when Mir McLean of Maryland missed two free throws with 3:43 left before halftime. Toledo was unable to secure the rebound, allowing Allie Kubek of the Terps to snatch the ball, get fouled, and make both free throws. This sequence ignited a surge for Maryland, culminating in a 12-3 run that set the tone heading into the half.
Statistically, Maryland exploited its advantage in the paint, outscoring Toledo 70-34 in that area. Additionally, the Terps ramped up their defensive efforts in the latter stages of the game. After the Rockets shot an impressive 75% (9 of 12) in the first quarter, they struggled to find their rhythm, hitting only 36.6% (15 of 41) over the final 30 minutes of gameplay.
Looking ahead, Toledo is set to face Mercyhurst on Friday, while Maryland will return home to take on Mount St. Mary’s on Tuesday.
