Moving halfway across the country to play college basketball is never an easy decision — especially when playing time is not guaranteed. 

That was the choice Maryland men’s basketball freshman guard Jaziah Harper made when he chose the Terps.

In an era where freshmen are constantly making an immediate impact with their schools, Harper has yet to log a minute this season and sits deep on the Terps’ bench — waiting for an opportunity. 

However, he has the tools to become a potential long-term piece for head coach Buzz Williams, even if he remains on the bench. 

Coming from right outside Chicago, Harper committed to Maryland in part because his high school athletic director was good friends with Williams. 

He joined a new-look Maryland squad and knew almost nobody — except for fellow freshman Aleks Alston, whom he met playing in tournaments together. 

Coming into Maryland and staying true to himself was very important for Harper. He walked into early practices wearing a distinctive backpack, which teammates and media members pointed out. 

He didn’t care — it was his philosophy. 

“I think it’s just very important… to have a true knowledge of yourself and who you are,” Harper said. “Having your own identity and not trying to be okay with being like everybody else. Little things like that can show your personality and make you stand out a little bit. Its just fun too.”

That sense of self is a strong mindset for a young player to have, especially one like Harper who has yet to see playing time. 

On the court, Harper possesses the skills and build to become a real force in the coming years. 

As a 6-foot-7 guard/forward, Harper has the ability to guard multiple positions while being a threat on offense. 

“Using my athleticism, using my length, I can stretch the floor out, I can shoot,” Harper said. “But most importantly, I can defend and rebound and get physical with the bigger guys,” 

That edge and commitment to defending is a big reason Harper could thrive in Williams’ system. 

Maryland’s rotation leaves little room for experimentation, especially with many older transfer guards and forwards. Harper has a chance to develop through practice and film study during his first collegiate season. 

A redshirt season could be likely for Harper as he has yet to see the court. But that doesn’t mean he will stop working hard or bring his “competitive nature” to practice. 

Harper won’t have much impact this season. But if he continues to embrace patience and growth, he will eventually surface. 

When Harper’s name gets called, he will be a piece for the Terps — whether that is later this year or in the coming seasons.