A former player of the Washington Wizards is looking to make his return to coaching with his alma mater. The Maryland Terrapins recently announced that head coach Kevin Willard is stepping down from his post. After a run to the Sweet 16, Willard has decided to not renew his contract with the team.
With that, the Terrapins are starting their search for a new head coach. Maryland alumni and former Wizards second-round pick Steve Blake, threw his name into the ring, announcing his desire to coach his alma mater.
"Tough to see Coach Willard leave," Blake posted on X. "He did a great job and I wish him the best! With that being said. I'm available and would love the challenge. Go Terps!!!"
Blake is a Maryland legend, helping lead the Terrapins to the 2002 NCAA championship as their lead point guard. While he wasn't exactly known for his scoring prowess, Blake was the prototypical point guard of the era, dishing out 7.9 assists in their championship run. His #25 jersey was retired by the Terrapins after his final season with Maryland.
The Wizards picked Blake up with the 38th pick in the 2004 NBA draft. The Maryland point guard did not do much in his two seasons in Washington, averaging just 5.3 points and 3.5 assists while playing only 17.1 minutes per game. Blake would proceed to play seven other NBA teams, with some of his more notable stints coming in Portland and both Los Angeles teams.
After his retirement, Blake had short stints in Portland and Phoenix as an assistant coach. Should he be selected for the Terrapins' coaching job, it would be his first foray as a head coach at the collegiate level.
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This story was originally published March 31, 2025 at 6:13 PM.