Illinois Fighting Illini Cruise Past Maryland Terrapins

Illini dominate in regular season finale, cover 15.5-point spread on the road

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The Illinois Fighting Illini defeated the Maryland Terrapins 89-70 in their regular season finale, covering the 15.5-point spread on the road. Illinois led by as many as 27 points in the game, controlling the action on both ends of the floor. The Illini outrebounded Maryland 47-31 and shot more efficiently from the field and beyond the arc.

Why it matters

This game highlighted the significant talent gap between the two programs, as Illinois - a potential national title contender - easily handled a struggling Maryland team in the Terrapins' home arena. The lopsided result underscores the work Buzz Williams has ahead of him to rebuild the Maryland program to its previous Sweet 16 standard.

The details

Illinois jumped out to an early lead and never looked back, stretching their advantage to as many as 27 points. The Illini's balanced scoring attack and dominant rebounding performance proved too much for the Terrapins to overcome. Illinois shot 50% from the field and 40% from three-point range, while holding Maryland to just 41% shooting and 29% from deep.

  • The two teams previously met on January 21st, with Illinois winning 89-70 at home.
  • This rematch took place on March 8, 2026 in College Park, Maryland.

The players

Keaton Wagler

The leading scorer for Illinois, averaging 18.1 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.3 assists per game.

Pharrel Payne

Maryland's leading scorer at 17.5 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, but has been sidelined since December 13th due to injury.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to play at a high level and not let up, especially against a team fighting to turn their season around.”

— Brad Underwood, Head Coach, Illinois Fighting Illini (draftkings.com)

What’s next

Illinois will await their seeding and matchup for the NCAA Tournament, while Maryland looks to the offseason to regroup under new head coach Buzz Williams.

The takeaway

This game showcased the talent disparity between a national title contender in Illinois and a rebuilding Maryland program. The Illini's dominant performance on both ends of the floor was a strong statement to end the regular season and sets them up well for a deep postseason run.