NEW YORK — In an impressive display, Selton Miguel led the Maryland Terrapins to a comprehensive 87-60 victory against Syracuse at the Barclays Center on Saturday. Throughout the game, Miguel demonstrated exceptional skill, scoring 16 of his total 24 points in the first half, setting the tone for Maryland’s dominant performance.

Miguel was efficient on the court, shooting 8-of-11 overall, including a remarkable 6-of-9 from beyond the arc, significantly contributing to Maryland’s success. The Terrapins also benefitted from Ja’Kobi Gillespie, who not only secured 17 points but also facilitated the game with 11 assists. Additionally, Julian Reese made his mark with 13 rebounds and 11 points, while Derik Queen also reached double figures with 11 points. With this win, Maryland improved its record to 10-2, marking a successful stretch where they have secured victories in seven of their last eight outings.

For Syracuse, who fell to a 5-6 record, the game was challenging, especially with the absence of their leading scorer, guard J.J. Starling, who has been sidelined since early December due to a hand injury incurred during practice. Elijah Moore stepped up from the bench and led the Orange with 16 points, while Donnie Freeman contributed 15 points. Kyle Cuffe Jr. also added 10 points, and Eddie Lampkin Jr. helped with 10 rebounds. Unfortunately, Syracuse has now lost four of their last five games.

Entering the matchup, Maryland was recognized as the ninth-best offensive team nationwide, averaging nearly 88 points per game, while also showcasing a solid defensive performance that limited opponents to 60.7 points per game. Those characteristics were evident as the Terrapins established an early lead. Miguel started the game strong, hitting a 3-pointer within the first minute, and Maryland maintained control throughout. By halftime, they had built a substantial 43-17 lead, ending the period with a 10-0 run, highlighted by a dunk from Jordan Geronimo off an assist from Gillespie.

In the second half, Maryland’s advantage soared to 37 points. Though Syracuse initiated a late comeback with a 12-2 run, it was not enough to alter the course of the game. Maryland capitalized on Syracuse’s mistakes, scoring 25 points off 21 turnovers, which included an impressive 15 steals.

Next, Syracuse will return home to face Bucknell, while Maryland will host Maryland-Eastern Shore on the following Saturday.