NCAA MEN’S WEST REGIONAL : Maryland Needs More Than Smith

OAKLAND —  Maryland Coach Gary Williams understands the confusion.

Many misguided people believe the Terrapins are nothing more than All-American Joe Smith and a supporting cast. No way, Williams said.

“Joe gets a lot of credit and he deserves it, but he only averages 12 shots per game,” Williams said. “We have many other consistent players, and we’ve been consistent all season.”

Third-seeded Maryland (26-7) probably will need all of its talent tonight against second-seeded Connecticut (27-4) in an NCAA tournament West Regional semifinal at the Oakland Coliseum Arena.

Despite Williams’ observation, Smith, as usual, will be the focus. The national player-of-the-year candidate averages 20.8 points, 10.6 rebounds and 2.9 blocked shots.

He dominates games with his power and athleticism.

“In my opinion, he is the best player in the United States at this point,” Connecticut Coach Jim Calhoun said. “The more you watch, the more you realize how good he is.”

Besides stopping Smith, the Huskies have to figure out what to do against the other Maryland starters, who all average at least 10 points a game. Guard Johnny Rhodes averages 13.7 points and forward Exree Hipp 13.6.

All three figure to pose matchup problems for Connecticut. But Husky forward Donny Marshall (15.5 points) and swingman Ray Allen (20.7) aren’t exactly easy to guard either.

The Huskies’ front line doesn’t possess the athleticism of Maryland’s, so expect some zone defense from Connecticut. Both teams play pressure defense, and Connecticut point guard Kevin Ollie is one of the best.

“Both teams want to play very similar: Fast break, trap, press, run the ball up the floor and try to create as many opportunities off defense,” Calhoun said. “I think the only difference is in the way they get it done.”