COLLEGE PARK, Md. — George Mason University (4-2, 0-0 Atlantic 10) fell to #9 Maryland (7-0, 0-0 Big Ten), 84-62, despite forcing 20 turnovers at the XFINITY Center.
Zahirah Walton led the team with 27 points.
The Patriots opened the game with a strong offensive effort, quickly establishing a 4–0 lead with points from Maliyah Johnson's jumper and a layup by
Zahirah Walton. Despite falling behind 10–4, the Green & Gold responded with a series of fastbreak plays, highlighted by
Mary Amoateng's 3-pointer at 4:46 and Walton's layup to tie the game at 18–18. The team continued their momentum with Walton scoring consecutive baskets, securing a 24–23 lead over Maryland by the end of the first quarter.
George Mason seized momentum early in the second quarter with Walton scoring a layup following a steal at 9:09, initiating a fast break. The team extended their lead with
Jada Brown's successful 3-pointer, assisted by
Kennedy Harris, at 7:51. Despite a late push from Maryland that included a fast-break jumper at the buzzer, the quarter ended tied at 36.
The Green & Gold faced a challenging third quarter as Maryland surged ahead, fueled by a 32-point effort. Despite a strong start with Walton's layup and a 3-pointer from Harris, George Mason struggled with turnovers, committing nine in the quarter. Amoateng contributed two late jumpers, but Maryland's dominance in the paint and fast-break opportunities helped them secure a decisive lead. The quarter concluded with Maryland ahead, 68-53.
In the fourth quarter, George Mason showcased a quick start with a fast-break jumper by
Page Greenburg at 9:39, following a steal by Amoateng. Despite this early momentum, the Patriots struggled to maintain consistent scoring against Maryland's defense, converting only three field goals in the quarter. Harris contributed with a layup at 6:46, assisted by Walton, but Maryland's defensive rebounds and free throws extended their lead.
Maryland capitalized on second-chance opportunities and free throws, widening the gap. George Mason's defensive efforts included a block by Walton and a key steal by Greenburg but were unable to close the deficit. The game concluded with Maryland securing a 16-point advantage in the final quarter, ending with a score of 84-62.
PATRIOT POINTS
UP NEXT
The Patriots return home to host the Rider Broncs on Tuesday, November 25 at 7 p.m. at EagleBank Arena. A live stream will also be available on ESPN+.
