As Greivis and Co. graduate, others must rise to take their place. This year, it's a group of five incoming freshmen. Over the next five days, we'll be introducing them to you, in order of their commitments. First up is Terrell Stoglin.
Name: Terrell Stoglin
Height: 6-0
Weight: 165
HS: Santa Rita; Tucson, AZ
AAU: Pump 'n' Run Elite
Position: PG
Nickname: Stogs. Also, the Goblin (derivative from the original, which was "the Lobbin' Goblin")
Rankings: 3 stars on Rivals, #28 PG, #122 overall; 93 on ESPN, #98 overall; 3 stars on Scout, #33 SG
Maryland Was Better Than: Arizona, Texas A&M, San Diego
Strengths: Talk about a volume scorer - Stoglin can fill it up with the best of them. He's one of the most prolific scorers in Arizona prep history (a history that includes Mike Bibby, Richard Jefferson, and Jerryd Bayless), and with good reason - he can absolutely light it up. Stoglin is a threat to score from anywhere on the floor, as he has both a solid jumper and can penetrate into the lane. Don't worry - he's a pretty good three point shooter; not Eric Hayes, but better than Adrian Bowie. One might describe him as a "crafty scorer". He doesn't just put points on the board, though. He's also a legitimate point guard, with savvy passing ability and solid court vision. It might not be at a Greivis Vasquez level, but it's plenty serviceable. Every write-up I've seen of him talks about his savvy, his moxie, and his confidence - a very Gary Williams type of guy. I like seeing swagger in the program, and Terrell is continuing the trend.
Weaknesses: Frankly, his body. He has every tool needed from a mental and skill standpoint, but the biggest concern is on the physical side of things. I wouldn't describe his build as frail, but it's certainly not strong. And his height is definitely below-ideal for the ACC. That would be okay if it wasn't for the fact that he's not terribly athletic, either. He's not a great leaper, and isn't exactly quick. Will his 5-11, 165 frame hold up in ACC ball? Will he be able to stay in front of those quick Carolina guards? That will determine his success level in the league.
In a Turtleshell: A scoring point guard that can point up points in bunches but may be limited at the next level by his body and athleticism.
Interesting Storyline: In most images/video I've seen of Stogs, he rocks a headband. The last player to do that for Maryland on a regular basis? Uh, no one since Gary Williams has been here. Gary even made Walt Williams take his off. It'll be interesting to see if Terrell gets to keep his.
Comparison: Tyrese Rice in build, look, and scoring ability. Like Rice, his body is below-average for the ACC, but he's just extraordinarily crafty. Also is similar to Sherron Collins in that he's a scoring point guard without great height, but Collins is quicker and stronger.
Prediction: Two things will determine Stoglin's success level: his body, and how he adjusts to the ACC. I think he overcomes both. Any one of four different players could start next year, but I don't see Stoglin quite yet. He will need an adjustment period. By his senior year, he'll be a stud. Right out of the gates...probably about 6 points a game, but he'll have a few great games.If Maryland needs points, he might play and score more than I expect.
Other Useful Links: Rivals | ESPN | Scout | Five Questions | Stoglin a Rare Talent | Stoglin Can't Rap | Full Highlights