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Maryland Terps Hit by Injury Bug
9 Dec
Summary
- Three Maryland players out with season-ending knee injuries.
- Coach Frese praises team's resilience amid significant setbacks.
- Veteran Bri McDaniel is expected to return from injury.
The No. 7 Maryland Terrapins, currently undefeated, are grappling with a series of season-ending injuries to key players. Guards Lea Bartelme, Ava McKennie, and Kaylene Smikle have all undergone knee surgeries, significantly impacting the team's roster. Coach Brenda Frese acknowledged the severity of these losses but lauded her players' "resiliency" and ability to adapt.
Kaylene Smikle, who had been playing through pain since preseason, announced her decision to have surgery before Maryland's recent double-overtime win. Smikle had been a leading scorer for the Terrapins last season and averaged 13.1 points in seven games this season. Her absence, along with the other injured guards, presents a substantial hurdle for the team.
Despite the adversity, there is a glimmer of positive news as veteran Bri McDaniel is expected to return as she recovers from her own ACL tear. The Terrapins have two weeks before their next Big Ten conference game, allowing time to adjust their strategy. The Big Ten conference, meanwhile, boasts nine teams ranked in the AP Top 25.
