Maryland Defeats North Carolina in Exhibition Game
Maryland secures a 72-68 victory over North Carolina during a preseason exhibition contest at the Xfinity Center.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Basketball
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Maryland edged out North Carolina 72-68 in a preseason exhibition match held at the Xfinity Center. Despite a late-game scoring drought, Maryland held on to defeat the Tar Heels on Thursday.
Why it matters
This exhibition contest provides key game-speed experience for both programs as they prepare to launch their respective regular-season campaigns.
Kate Harpring led the effort with 29 points, five rebounds, four assists, and three steals. North Carolina's defense proved effective by forcing 13 total turnovers, including five in the third quarter alone.
The players
Kate Harpring
A standout player who recorded 29 points, five rebounds, four assists, and three steals during the game.
Maryland
The college basketball program that hosted the exhibition game at the Xfinity Center.
North Carolina
The visiting college basketball program that is set to travel to Paris for their upcoming season opener.
Oklahoma
The collegiate basketball opponent scheduled to play against North Carolina on November 2.
The details
Maryland struggled from the field, shooting 37 percent overall and hitting under 30 percent of its 3-point attempts. The team failed to record a single field goal during the final four minutes of the contest.
Timeline
October 24, 2026: Maryland defeated North Carolina in exhibition game.
November 2, 2026: North Carolina will face Oklahoma in Paris.
Season Trajectory
This preseason result helps set the competitive tone for both programs as they transition into the NCAA women's basketball regular season schedule. The outcome provides a look at roster performance ahead of North Carolina's international season opener.
Maryland's inability to score a field goal in the final four minutes highlights a critical area for late-game offensive adjustments. Meanwhile, North Carolina's defensive intensity, which forced 13 turnovers, will be a key factor to watch when they face Oklahoma in Paris.
The takeaway
Preseason exhibitions are essential for identifying rotation weaknesses before the regular season begins in earnest. Coaches typically use these matchups to stress-test their defensive schemes and refine end-of-game personnel decisions.
What happens next
North Carolina will travel to Paris to play Oklahoma on November 2, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the upcoming year, explore the latest news in College Park Basketball.
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