The Maryland women’s basketball team opened its 2025–26 season with a statement win, cruising past Loyola 80–26 in College Park. The Terps took control early with defensive intensity that never let up, holding Loyola to just 26 points, their fewest allowed in more than four decades.
Transfer guard Oluchi Okananwa made an immediate impact, leading the Terps in scoring and setting the tone on both ends. Saylor Poffenbarger and Jakia Brown-Turner added steady production and veteran leadership, helping the Terps push the pace and share the ball effectively throughout the game.
Maryland’s depth was on full display as 13 players saw action, keeping energy high and allowing the team to experiment with rotations. Loyola showed some early fight, but the difference in speed and execution quickly widened the gap.
The win marks a strong start for a Maryland team blending returning veterans with key newcomers, sending a clear message that they plan to be an aggressive and defensive-minded group.
Watch the full postgame recap below as Jalynn Holmes breaks down the Terps dominant season opener from XFINITY Center in College Park.