Mark Turgeon’s job at Maryland just got even harder.
Pe’Shon Howard, a sophomore guard expected to start along side Terrell Stoglin, broke a bone just below the big toe in his left foot and could miss as much as three months time.
“I feel bad for Pe’Shon,” Turgeon said in the statement. “He worked so hard and had a great summer and early fall. He’s been practicing and playing well for us. Hopefully, we’ll get a lot better by the time Pe’Shon joins the team later this year.”
The injury puts the Terps in an even bigger hole heading into their first season under Turgeon. With Jordan Williams leaving for the NBA and two of Gary Williams’ three recruits attending school elsewhere, there won’t be much on the roster for Turgeon to work with.
Stoglin, who was already expected to play a much-expanded role this year, will be even more vital as the lone playmaker in the back court. Senior Sean Mosley is as steady as they come and touted freshman Nick Faust will provide a boost on the perimeter, but the depth and versatility of the back court that was supposed to be the lifeblood of this team will undoubtedly take a major hit.
Maryland is still awaiting word from the NCAA on the status of freshman Alex Len, a seven-footer from the Ukraine that was a late-signing by Turgeon. If he is eligible and as good as he has been advertised, the Terps may still have a shot at sneaking into one of the lesser postseason tournaments.
But as things currently stand, its looking like this will be a rebuilding year in College Park.
Rob Dauster is the editor of the college basketball website Ballin’ is a Habit. You can find him on twitter @ballinisahabit.