There is one rule at the University of Maryland, and it has nothing to do with academics; Every student, no matter their association to the athletic department, must hate Duke University. It’s a basketball rivalry first, but it extends to every aspect of student life. That’s why I was surprised to see that Greivis Vazquez, possibly the most famous student at the University is an unapologetic Duke fan. This quote from Josh Hairston, an incoming Duke basketball recruit:
Maryland Star Greivis Vazquez Loves Duke, And Other Crimes Against Humanity
A kid asked [Vasquez] who he wanted to win the tournament and he said ‘Duke all the way’. He’s always been a big Duke fan and he hopes we can pull it off. He is a true Duke fan even though he plays for Maryland.”
Excuse me while I vomit.
I attended UMD and I can tell you that the hate for Duke is palpable on campus even when the next game against the Blue Devils is months away. I’m not proud of it, but like crab cakes and football, hatin’ on Duke is just what Maryland does.
Everyone remembers when Maryland fans screamed, “F--- YOU JJ” when we played Duke on national television; but I remember screaming the same thing at a meaningless soccer game against the University of Akron, just because. It runs that deep. So when it comes to the point guard, the leader of the basketball team, I’d like to see at least a little disdain for the opponent his University wants to beat more than any other.
If Greivis wants to love Duke before, or after his time at UMD, that’s his business. But while he wears the Maryland jersey, he simply can not support Duke in any way. Can’t be done. I’m just glad this didn’t come out when he was still playing, because I’m not sure what the fans would have done; and lord knows we don’t need any more riots.
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