Maryland Basketball: Is 2018-19 a make-or-break season for Mark Turgeon?

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EAST LANSING, MI – JANUARY 4: Bruno Fernando #23 of the Maryland Terrapins drives baseline defended by Xavier Tilman #23 of the Michigan State Spartans at Breslin Center on January 4, 2018 in East Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Rey Del Rio/Getty Images) /

The year ahead

Despite last year’s disappointment and Kevin Huerter somewhat unexpectedly leaving for the NBA, Maryland enters the new season with a good deal of hope.

All-Big Ten third-team point guard Anthony Cowan Jr. is back along with Fernando, who many thought would have been a first-round pick had he decided to stay in the draft this year. Maryland is also welcoming in the nation’s No. 7 recruiting class, the highest they’ve ever had under Turgeon.

It’s also expected to be another down year for the Big Ten, meaning the Terps have a good chance to finish well in the conference.

Still, there’s no denying how much pressure is on Turgeon. Average attendance has dropped by over 3,000 fans per game in two seasons as fan unrest continues to grow.

Next: Preseason Big Ten Rankings for 2018-19

Expectations are set: make the NCAA Tournament – at least. If not, or if it’s another disappointing season, Turgeon may be out of time in College Park.

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