Home Sport live NBA Rodney Rice’s clutch three-pointer secures Maryland’s third consecutive victory, 79-78 against Indiana.

Rodney Rice’s clutch three-pointer secures Maryland’s third consecutive victory, 79-78 against Indiana.

0

— In an exciting finish, Rodney Rice sank a crucial 3-pointer with just seven seconds remaining, propelling Maryland to a narrow 79-78 victory over Indiana on Sunday.

The Terrapins, now boasting a record of 16-5 overall and 6-4 in the conference, celebrated their third consecutive win in the Big Ten and their second straight victory on the road. In contrast, the Hoosiers, with a record of 14-7 and 5-5 in conference play, have faced a challenging period, losing four out of their last five games.

Maryland initially enjoyed a 10-point lead during the second half, but Indiana mounted a strong comeback. Anthony Leal converted a three-point play, leveling the score at 70 points with less than five minutes left to play. Myles Rice then put the Hoosiers ahead with a long-range shot, followed by a jumper from Malik Reneau, giving Indiana a five-point cushion.

The Terrapins bounced back with consecutive layups from Selton Miguel and Julian Reece. However, Leal delivered another three-point play with just 38 seconds on the clock, pushing Indiana back in front at 78-74. Gillespie responded for Maryland with a jumper to narrow the gap. After Trey Galloway missed a free throw, Derik Queen snagged the rebound, allowing Maryland to call a timeout and set up the winning shot from Rodney Rice. Indiana attempted to strategize during a timeout with five seconds remaining, but Myles Rice’s 3-point attempt at the buzzer fell short.

Throughout the game, Maryland showcased impressive shooting, hitting 49% of their shots (30 out of 61) and sinking 12 of 24 attempts from beyond the arc. Rodney Rice was particularly effective, making 5 of 7 from 3-point territory and finishing the game with 23 points. Ja’Kobe Gillespie also contributed significantly, hitting 4 of 10 from distance for a total of 18 points and serving up nine assists. Other key contributors included Miguel with 15 points, Reece who recorded 14 points and 10 rebounds, and Queen who pulled down 11 rebounds.

For Indiana, Mackenzie Mgbako and Myles Rice both scored 16 points, leading the team’s efforts. Oumar Ballo added a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Reneau chipped in with 10 points alongside six rebounds and two assists.

Looking ahead, Maryland is set to host No. 18 Wisconsin on Wednesday, while Indiana will visit No. 11 Purdue on Friday.