Maryland's 2006 Championship Basketball Team Reunites in Heartwarming 20-Year Celebration
The legendary 2006 Maryland women's basketball championship team gathered for an emotional reunion, sharing laughter, memories, and the unbreakable bonds that helped them make history. Their story continues to inspire new generations of athletes with its powerful message about teamwork and friendship.
Twenty years after making history, the Maryland women's basketball team that captured the 2006 national championship came together for a celebration that proved some victories last forever—not just in record books, but in the hearts of those who achieved them together.
On a special Sunday at XFINITY Center in College Park, ten players from that magical championship squad reunited alongside coaches and support staff for an intimate gathering with season ticket holders and supporters. The atmosphere was electric with joy as teammates who had become lifelong friends shared embraces, laughter, and cherished memories from their historic journey.
The scoreboard at the practice court displayed the unforgettable final score from Boston's 2006 championship game, where Maryland defeated Duke 78-75 in overtime—a thrilling conclusion to an extraordinary season. For guard Kristi Toliver, whose clutch three-pointer sent that title game into overtime in what became the most iconic shot in program history, the reunion brought everything full circle.
"It's cool just to hear what other peoples' stories were, where they were when they were watching, how excited they were," Toliver shared warmly. The genuine excitement in her voice reflected the lasting impact of that achievement on an entire community.
Marissa Coleman, another championship team member, expressed amazement at how quickly two decades had passed. "Winning it was great, but what made it even better was the people we did it with," she said, highlighting the enduring relationships that formed the foundation of their success.

Laura Harper, who earned Final Four Most Outstanding Player honors, called the accomplishment "the best feeling of my life thus far." Her pride in being "etched in history" alongside her teammates radiated through every word.
Perhaps Shay Doron, Coach Brenda Frese's first-ever recruit at Maryland, captured the team's secret best: "I don't know if we were the best team but we were the most cohesive team that just loved each other. That kind of tipped us over the edge and allowed us to do things even bigger than we thought we could do."
That genuine love and connection shone through in every interaction at the reunion. The players spoke of being each other's best friends and sisters—bonds that translated into magical chemistry on the court and lasting friendships off it.
The celebration included a public appearance where fans gave the championship team a thunderous standing ovation. Toliver had the honor of holding the championship trophy once again, a moment that clearly moved everyone present.
Coach Brenda Frese, now in her 24th year at Maryland, reflected on the weekend after her current team's 82-67 victory over Indiana. She told her players what made the 2006 team special: their closeness, their commitment to playing for each other, and their unwavering belief in one another.
"Coach B is the reason we're all here," Coleman said gratefully. "She had a vision. She sold us on that vision."
Harper summed up the enduring spirit perfectly: "This is Maryland pride. It sounds cliche but there's a level of pride and joy of, excitement of just knowing we were part of it and it's not over. It continues."
Their championship journey continues to inspire, reminding us that the greatest victories are built on love, trust, and genuine friendship.
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Based on reporting by Google: basketball championship
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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