WBB March Madness Round of 32 Preview: No. 7 Arizona vs. No. 2 Maryland

The Round of 32 of the 2021 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament is set to commence on Saturday, and among the most anticipated matchups is the clash between No. 7 Arizona and No. 2 Maryland. This matchup pits two of the nation’s top teams against each other in a battle of two contrasting styles.

The Wildcats have been a revelation this season, led by guard James Akinjo, who has emerged as one of the nation’s premier floor generals. Akinjo’s ability to both score and distribute the ball has allowed Arizona to play at a frenetic pace, and the Wildcats have excelled at pushing the tempo, averaging 78.2 points per game.

On the other side, the Terrapins boast one of the nation’s most balanced attacks, with four players averaging double figures in scoring. Maryland has been particularly effective in the halfcourt, running a high-post offense that has allowed the Terrapins to maximize their offensive possessions.

This matchup is sure to be a clash of styles, as Arizona’s up-tempo attack will be pitted against Maryland’s halfcourt system. Additionally, the Wildcats’ aggressive on-ball defense will be tested by the Terrapins’ high-post passing attack. Whichever team is able to impose their will on the other will likely come out on top in this pivotal Round of 32 showdown.