Maryland Basketball Newcomer Report: Big Men

I am starting a short series detailing the new additions to Maryland basketball this upcoming season. The Terps return only two frontcourt players from last season, Julian Reese and Caelum Swanton-Roger. They lose key bench player Patrick Emilien along with reserves Arnaud Revaz and Pavlo Dzuba. They bring in freshman Braden Pierce from IMG Academy and transfer Mady Traore from New Mexico New Mexico State.


Mady Traore

Originally an NC State commit, Traore ended up at New Mexico State due to transcript issues because he is an international player. He only appeared in seven games for the Aggies because their season was cut short by police investigations within the program. 

 
 
He is a unique prospect and is seen as a bit of a project. However, he has good ball handling and decent shooting for a big man. I think he probably starts the season in the same role as Swanton-Roger did last season, with an opportunity to become the full-time backup if he plays well. 


Braden Pierce


Pierce is an interesting case as well. He didn't start playing basketball until a few years ago and is also seen as a project. It is expected that he will redshirt this year, but could be a good contributor in the coming years. 



He was also recruited for his shooting as he shot 31% from three in his senior year. He is also a 7-footer, something Maryland has not had in a while.

Neither player is projected to be a true game-changer this season, but both are high-upside players that could be very useful in the coming seasons. 

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