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Payne's Return Ignites Maryland Basketball's Future
23 Jun
Summary
- Pharrel Payne will play for Maryland in the 2026-27 season.
- Payne led the team in scoring with 17.5 points per game.
- Maryland received a medical waiver from the NCAA for Payne.
Maryland basketball player Pharrel Payne is confirmed to return for the 2026-27 season, announced by athletic director Jim Smith. Payne, a 6-foot-9 senior, was the team's leading scorer at 17.5 points per game and a top rebounder before a significant knee injury ended his season prematurely. His absence impacted the team's performance, contributing to a challenging 12-21 overall record last season.
Payne's return is further solidified by an NCAA medical waiver, a crucial factor for the Terps. This news arrives as the team is undergoing significant roster adjustments. Payne will anchor a frontcourt featuring new additions like power forwards Tomislav Buljan, Maban Jabriel, and Robert Jennings II.
The incoming class also includes talented guards and a highly-ranked freshman group. Athletic director Jim Smith emphasized the team's resilience through injuries and their commitment to improvement. The team's significant roster overhaul, blending experienced transfers with promising freshmen, is ranked 12th nationally.
