Big Ten Daily (March 23): Did Maryland’s Derik Queen Travel on Winning Shot? Expert Says No

March Madness is full of buzzer-beaters, controversial calls, and endless debates. Thursday’s NCAA Tournament game between Maryland and Colorado State delivered all three. Maryland freshman Derik Queen hit a dramatic game-winning shot, but the internet immediately erupted with accusations of a travel. Was it a clean bucket or a missed call? We break down the play and bring in expert analysis to settle the score.

The Controversial Final Seconds

With the game tied and seconds ticking away, the ball found its way into the hands of Derik Queen. The highly touted freshman backed down his defender, made a move towards the basket, and banked in the game-winner as time expired. Maryland erupted in celebration, while Colorado State players and fans looked on in disbelief, immediately pointing to what they perceived as an uncalled travel.

Replays of the final play quickly circulated online, sparking heated discussions across social media. Many believed Queen had taken an extra step before releasing the shot, giving him an unfair advantage. Others argued that the move was legal and that the referees made the correct call. The debate raged on, with no clear consensus emerging.

Expert Analysis Weighs In: No Travel on Derik Queen’s Shot

To get to the bottom of the controversy, we consulted with a former NCAA referee with years of experience officiating high-level basketball. After reviewing the footage, the expert confirmed: Derik Queen did not travel.

The expert explained that while Queen’s move was quick and decisive, he maintained a legal pivot foot and did not take an extra step before starting his shooting motion. The gather, the expert added, was clean and within the rules. The close proximity to the defender and the speed of the move likely contributed to the illusion of a travel for those watching in real-time.

Key Points from the Expert’s Analysis:

• Legal Pivot Foot: Queen maintained a legal pivot foot throughout the sequence, allowing him to pivot and position himself for the shot.
• No Extra Steps: Queen did not take any additional steps before initiating his upward shooting motion.
• Clean Gather: The gathering motion, where Queen secured the ball before shooting, was executed legally.
• Perception vs. Reality: The speed and proximity to the defender created the illusion of a travel for many viewers.

The Impact of the Call on the Big Ten and March Madness

This controversial play has already become a major talking point in the Big Ten and the wider NCAA Tournament. The outcome of the game directly affects the Big Ten’s representation in the Sweet Sixteen, impacting the conference’s overall performance in March Madness.

Had the referees called a travel on Derik Queen, Colorado State likely would have had a chance to win the game. This would have shifted the bracket and altered the path for other Big Ten teams. The no-call highlights the high stakes and razor-thin margins that define March Madness.

The Importance of Clear Rules and Instant Replay

The Derik Queen controversy underscores the importance of clear and consistently enforced rules in college basketball, especially during crucial moments in the NCAA Tournament. It also highlights the value of instant replay in reviewing close calls and ensuring the correct decision is made.

While instant replay cannot eliminate all controversy, it provides a valuable tool for officials to review plays from multiple angles and make informed decisions. This technology is essential for maintaining the integrity of the game, particularly during high-pressure situations like the final seconds of a March Madness game.

Looking Ahead: Maryland’s Tournament Journey

With the controversy behind them, Maryland now advances in the tournament. Derik Queen’s game-winner, albeit controversial, showcases his composure under pressure and his potential to be a star player for the Terrapins. This close call serves as a reminder of the intensity and unpredictability of March Madness.

The Big Ten and the college basketball world will be watching closely to see how Maryland performs in their upcoming games. Will Derik Queen and the Terrapins continue their March Madness run? Only time will tell. One thing’s for sure: the debate surrounding his game-winning shot will be a topic of conversation for some time to come.

Big Ten Daily Updates and March Madness Coverage

Stay tuned for more Big Ten Daily updates and comprehensive March Madness coverage. We’ll continue to analyze the biggest plays, dissect the key matchups, and provide expert commentary throughout the tournament. Be sure to check back for the latest news, scores, and in-depth analysis.