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Derik Queen's Buzzer-Beater Sends Maryland to Sweet Sixteen: A March Madness Thriller

March Madness is known for its nail-biting finishes and unforgettable moments, and the 2025 NCAA Tournament delivered another classic. Maryland Terrapins freshman Derik Queen etched his name in tournament lore with a buzzer-beating fadeaway jumper, propelling his team to a thrilling 72-71 victory over Colorado State and a coveted spot in the Sweet Sixteen. For California basketball fans, this moment encapsulates the excitement and unpredictability that makes March Madness so captivating.

The Shot Heard 'Round College Park: Queen's Clutch Performance

With under three seconds remaining in the second round matchup in Seattle, the Terrapins found themselves trailing No. 12 Colorado State. A well-executed inbounds play found the ball in the hands of Derik Queen. The freshman center, showing poise beyond his years, drove to his left, faded away, and banked in the game-winning shot as time expired. The arena erupted as Maryland secured its first Sweet Sixteen appearance since 2016.

"Maryland finally landed on the right side of a buzzer-beater after Derik Queen's stunning game-winner in the NCAA tournament," highlighting the significance of the moment for the Terrapins program.

Recent Updates: Maryland's March Madness Journey

Following their dramatic victory over Colorado State, Maryland advanced to the Sweet Sixteen. While the official details of their Sweet Sixteen matchup are still developing, their journey thus far has been nothing short of remarkable. The team's performance has been fueled by a combination of veteran leadership and the emergence of young talent like Derik Queen.

• March 23, 2025: Maryland defeats Illinois, advancing to the Sweet Sixteen, as reported by UK Athletics. This victory further solidifies their position as a team to watch in the tournament.
• Ongoing Coverage: CBS Sports is providing live stream and TV schedule updates for the 2025 March Madness tournament, ensuring fans across the country can follow the action.

Contextual Background: Derik Queen's Rise and Maryland's Tournament Hopes

Derik Queen, born on December 27, 2004, is an American college basketball player making waves as a center for the Maryland Terrapins. Before joining Maryland, Queen was a consensus five-star recruit in the 2024 class, showcasing his talent and potential early on. He played high school basketball for Montverde Academy, a program known for producing top-tier basketball talent.

Maryland's journey to the Sweet Sixteen is a testament to their resilience and determination. After a season of ups and downs, the Terrapins entered the NCAA Tournament as a No. 4 seed, facing pressure to perform. The team's success can be attributed to a combination of factors, including strong coaching, a balanced offensive attack, and a commitment to defense. For Maryland fans, this Sweet Sixteen appearance represents a significant step forward for the program and a chance to compete for a national championship.

Immediate Effects: A Boost for Maryland Basketball and Queen's Rising Star

Derik Queen's game-winning shot has had an immediate and significant impact, not only on the Maryland basketball program but also on Queen's personal trajectory.

• Team Morale: The victory has undoubtedly boosted team morale and confidence as they head into the Sweet Sixteen.
• Recruiting Boost: The exposure and excitement surrounding the team's success will likely have a positive impact on recruiting efforts.
• Queen's Recognition: Derik Queen has become an overnight sensation, with his name trending on social media and his highlight reel being shared across the internet.

Future Outlook: Can Maryland Make a Deep Tournament Run?

Looking ahead, the future is bright for both Derik Queen and the Maryland Terrapins. While the NCAA Tournament is notoriously unpredictable, Maryland has the talent and momentum to make a deep run.

• Sweet Sixteen Matchup: Their upcoming Sweet Sixteen matchup will be a crucial test. Success will depend on their ability to maintain their focus, execute their game plan, and continue to receive contributions from all players.
• Queen's Development: Derik Queen's continued development will be key to Maryland's long-term success. As he gains more experience and refines his skills, he has the potential to become a dominant force in college basketball.
• National Championship Contenders?: While Duke is considered the nation's top pick to win the 2025 NCAA men's basketball tournament, as reported by NCAA.com, Maryland's recent performance suggests they could be a dark horse contender.

The Road Ahead in March Madness

The journey through March Madness is a relentless test of skill, endurance, and mental fortitude. For Maryland, the Sweet Sixteen represents a significant milestone, but the ultimate goal remains a national championship. As they prepare for their next challenge, the Terrapins will need to rely on their teamwork, their coaching staff, and the continued brilliance of players like Derik Queen.

The story of Derik Queen and the Maryland Terrapins is a reminder of the magic of March Madness. It's a time when dreams are realized, heroes are born, and unforgettable moments are etched into the history of college basketball. As fans in California and across the country tune in to watch the remaining games, they can expect more excitement, more drama, and more moments that will define the tournament for years to come.

A Bit of March Madness History

The NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Tournament, more commonly known as March Madness, has a rich history dating back to 1939. The tournament has evolved significantly over the years, expanding from just eight teams to the current format of 68 teams. Some interesting facts about the tournament include:

• First Champion: The first NCAA Tournament was won by the Oregon Ducks, who defeated Ohio State in the final.
• Most Championships: UCLA holds the record for the most NCAA Men's Basketball Championships, with 11 titles.
• Cinderella Stories: March Madness is famous for its "Cinderella" stories, where lower-seeded teams pull off upsets and make improbable runs to the later rounds of the tournament. These underdog victories are a major part of what makes the tournament so exciting.

As March Madness continues, fans eagerly await the next chapter in this storied tradition, hoping to witness more thrilling games and unforgettable moments. And who knows, perhaps Derik Queen and the Maryland Terrapins will continue their remarkable journey and add their own chapter to the history books.