Maryland Coach Kevin Willard Delivers Postgame Rant Amid Job Speculation
After the Maryland Terrapins won their first-round game against Grand Canyon in the NCAA Tournament, head coach Kevin Willard held a press conference. He defended his program. He defended himself. His strong words made headlines. Rumors link him to the vacant head coach job at Villanova. These rumors spark questions about his future at Maryland.
Before the tournament began, Willard stirred controversy with his comments on contract talks and the Maryland administration’s support for basketball. He explained that he had not signed an amended contract. His reason was that athletic director Damon Evans was set to leave for Southern Methodist University. Willard felt frustrated with the funding for the program.
"There’s no special situation," Willard said firmly. "The only issue is you and Twitter. I cannot control you, and I cannot control Twitter. I have spoken with these people. They know exactly what is happening. I have been open and honest with them."
After the game, Willard criticized the Maryland administration for how it handled name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals. InsideMDSports reported that funds were not spread evenly. Evans plans to direct $14 million of the $20.5 million revenue-sharing budget to football. This plan leaves only $4 million for basketball. Willard said that his request for the team to spend one more night in New York during Christmas was turned down because of money issues.
"I can’t change these things," he said about the media and social chatter. "I speak, and you write what you want anyway. This wastes my time. Our website is like TMZ. I will handle what I can."
Willard’s strong words come after a promising start at Maryland. He joined the school in 2022 after success at Seton Hall. In his first three years, he led the Terrapins to two NCAA Tournament spots. This season, he built a talented team. The squad features five-star freshman Derik Queen and the “Crab Five.” The Crab Five helped the team secure a No. 4 seed after they finished second in the Big Ten regular season.
"I did not lie," Willard defended. "I just wanted to be clear—I had the same talk with these people. My job is for the University of Maryland, our season ticket holders, and my donors. I work to make this program the best it can be."
As the tournament continues, all eyes will watch Willard and the Terrapins. Everyone will note the impact of his bold defense and the change he seeks for his team.
