Men’s Basketball Faces No. 11 Illinois in Wednesday Night Showdown

The Maryland men’s basketball team is set to face No. 11 Illinois in a highly anticipated game on January 21, 2026. Following a resounding victory over Penn State, where they won 96-73, the Terps head into this matchup with momentum.
Game Details
- Date: January 21, 2026
- Time: 7 PM ET / 6 PM CT
- Location: State Farm Center, Champaign, Illinois
- Broadcast: BTN
Maryland holds a notable historical advantage over Illinois, boasting a record of 17 wins to 8 losses. The Terps have triumphed in five of their last six encounters, including victories in the previous season.
Star Player: Diggy Coit
Diggy Coit has emerged as a standout performer for Maryland. In their last match, he scored an impressive 43 points against Penn State, setting a new scoring record at the XFINITY Center. His achievement places him just one point shy of the program’s all-time record set by Ernie Graham in 1978.
- Coit’s nine three-pointers in the game tied the program’s single-game record.
- He has averaged 36.5 points over recent games, earning him the Big Ten Player of the Week honor for the second time this season.
This season, Coit is the only player in the Big Ten with multiple 40-point games to his name. His performance has made him the active leading player in NCAA Division I with ten total 30-point games.
Impact of Solomon Washington
Team dynamics have been positively affected by Solomon Washington’s return. After recovering from an injury that sidelined him for the first eight games of the season, he has contributed significantly to the lineup. Washington is averaging 9.5 points and 9.4 rebounds per game, showcasing his skills and experience.
Coaching Leadership
Head coach Buzz Williams has brought a new energy to the Maryland program since his appointment on April 2, 2025. Known for leading Texas A&M to three consecutive NCAA Tournaments, Williams aims to become one of only three NCAA Division I coaches to secure 100 wins at four different institutions.
Upcoming Promotions
To enhance the fan experience, Maryland basketball has introduced several promotions for their upcoming games. These include a Family Four Pack for the Ohio State and Iowa games, along with a Sunday Shoutouts package. Notable games on the schedule include:
- Pink Out against Purdue on February 1
- Black Out against Ohio State on February 5
- Checker Flag Game against Illinois on March 8
Fans are encouraged to check for exclusive ticket deals and detailed promotions on El-Balad.




