TRUJILLO ALTO, Puerto Rico (AP) — Kaila Charles scored 18 points, Taylor Mikesell added 17 and No. 7 Maryland used a strong second half to beat Morgan State 68-44 Friday in the Puerto Rico Clasico tournament.
In a nonconference matchup between Maryland-based teams, the Terrapins (5-0) led by only 28-22 at halftime before Mikesell scored 14 in a 22-point third quarter that pushed the margin to 15 points.
A three-point play by Charles made it 57-35 with 5:55 left, and Maryland coasted to the finish.
The Terrapins outscored the Bears 18-9 over the final 10 minutes.
Stephanie Jones had 10 points and 11 rebounds for Maryland and Shakira Austin had 14 rebounds. The Terrapins finished with a 53-19 advantage on the boards.
Adreora Coleman scored 20 for the Bears (1-5), who lost to Georgia 60-33 in a first-round game.
BIG PICTURE
Morgan State: Despite the 24-point margin of defeat, the Bears can take solace in keeping it close for a half.
Maryland: The Terrapins won easily, but they've got to get a handle on their propensity to start slowly, which could prove costly if not corrected.
UP NEXT
Morgan State: Hosts Central Connecticut State on Monday.
Maryland: Closes play in Puerto Rico on Saturday against Georgia (3-2).
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