Maryland Athletics Struggles in AD's First Year

Football and men's basketball post dismal conference records under new leadership.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 5:06pm

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In his first year as Maryland's athletic director, Jim Smith has overseen a tough season for the school's football and men's basketball programs. The Terps posted a combined 5 wins in conference play across the two sports, the lowest regular-season winning percentage among Power Five programs.

Why it matters

Maryland's poor performance in high-profile sports like football and men's basketball raises concerns about the direction of the athletic department under new leadership. The lack of on-field success could impact fan engagement, donor support, and the school's overall reputation.

The details

Maryland's football team went 1-8 in conference play, while the men's basketball squad managed just a 4-16 record against conference opponents. The combined 5 wins across the two sports represents the lowest regular-season conference winning percentage among Power Five programs.

  • The 2025-26 season was Jim Smith's first as Maryland's athletic director.

The players

Jim Smith

The athletic director at the University of Maryland, in his first year in the role.

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The takeaway

Maryland's struggles in high-profile sports like football and men's basketball under new athletic director Jim Smith raise questions about the direction of the athletic department and the ability to engage fans and donors in the face of poor on-field performance.