The Maryland Terrapins’ 2025–26 non-conference schedule offers a mix of early tune-ups and marquee showdowns, providing a steady test for the program’s first-year head coach, Buzz Williams.
A Favorable Path for a Fresh Start
While not overwhelming in difficulty, the slate includes several high-profile games that should help prepare Maryland for Big Ten play.
The Terrapins will face familiar regional opponents early, travel to Las Vegas for a pair of tough neutral-site contests, and finish with a trip to Charlottesville for one of their oldest rivalries.
Opening Homestand
Monday, November 3 – Coppin State
The Terrapins begin the season with an in-state matchup that should allow them to settle in quickly. Maryland has won two of the three prior meetings with Coppin State and will look to start strong in front of the home crowd. This should be a good start for Williams in College Park.
Friday, November 7 – Georgetown
A long-dormant regional rivalry returns when Georgetown visits College Park. The Terrapins have dominated the series recently, winning the last 12 matchups and holding a 38–27 all-time edge. This Big Ten–Big East battle should bring plenty of energy to Xfinity Center.
Tuesday, November 11 – Alcorn State
Maryland continues its early home stretch with a favorable matchup, aiming to build rhythm and test rotations during the opening week of play.
Road and Neutral Tests
Saturday, November 15 – at Marquette
A major early challenge awaits as Maryland travels to Milwaukee to face a Big East contender. The Golden Eagles edged the Terrapins by four points last season, and this rematch should provide another high-intensity test.
Wednesday, November 19 – Mount St. Mary’s
Another local opponent visits College Park, giving Maryland a chance to regroup before heading west.
Monday, November 24 – vs. UNLV (Las Vegas)
The Terrapins open the Las Vegas showcase against the hometown Rebels. Maryland hasn’t faced UNLV since 1986, when the Rebels won by six. Expect a lively atmosphere with plenty of Scarlet and Gray in the stands.
Tuesday, November 25 – vs. Gonzaga (Las Vegas)
Maryland’s toughest non-conference opponent comes just 24 hours later when they meet perennial powerhouse Gonzaga. The programs last met in 2008, a decisive Bulldogs win. This one will serve as a true barometer of where Maryland stands.
December Challenges
Tuesday, December 2 – Wagner
Back home, the Terrapins get a breather before they start a couple early early-season Big Ten games, and then go on the road just before Christmas.
Saturday, December 20 – at Virginia
Old ACC foes renew their rivalry in Charlottesville for the 185th meeting between the programs. Virginia won the last matchup in 2018, but Maryland still leads the all-time series 108–76.
Sunday, December 28 – Old Dominion
The Terrapins wrap up their non-conference slate with another home game, setting up a smooth transition into additional Big Ten play.
A Balanced Test Before Big Ten Play
Maryland’s non-conference lineup features just enough challenge to prepare for the grind ahead. With most early games at home and only a few major tests on the road, the Terrapins have a strong chance to build confidence and chemistry before diving into the Big Ten schedule.