BRIDGEPORT, Conn. — Even in warmups, it was easy to see the different approach between Maryland and Oregon on Saturday.
The Ducks looked nice and loose, just happy to be there and dancing to warmup songs. The Terps, meanwhile, looked like they were on a business trip, taking this game as a stepping stone to an almost-certain rematch with UConn in the Elite Eight.
It stayed that way for most of the game. Oregon looked relaxed and confident, while Maryland looked tight and was never able to establish a rhythm on either end of the floor.
“Oregon’s for real,” head coach Brenda Frese said after the game.