UMBC sounds like the name of a new bank that's sprung up, but it's really the University of Maryland-Baltimore County, new kid on the NCAA Tournament basketball block. This trip to the March classic will be the America East champ's first, and the school's athletic Web site proclaims "It's Our Time."

Sure, it could become a tough time for the Retrievers when big, bad Georgetown comes rolling into town. It's Rocky vs. Apollo Creed, David vs. Goliath.

But at the moment, UMBC is having the time of its basketball life.

PAST FIVE GAMES

GEORGETOWN: The Hoyas were on a roll before losing to Pittsburgh in the Big East tournament final. They're 4-1 in their past five outings.

UMBC: The Retrievers also have won four of their past five. If they go 5-for-6, they'll shock the universe.

KEY PLAYERS

GEORGETOWN: Roy Hibbert rocks. He scores (13.6), rebounds (6.5), blocks shots (73) and intimidates.

UMBC: Point guard Jay Green, the America East Tournament's most outstanding player, has 236 assists, third-most in league history.

COACHES

GEORGETOWN: John Thompson III, national coach of the year last season, is building a resume like his famous father, John Thompson.

UMBC: Randy Monroe has taken UMBC to unprecedented heights and a school-record 24 wins.

NCAA PEDIGREE

GEORGETOWN: The Hoyas won the national title in 1984 and make their 25th NCAA Tournament appearance.

UMBC: The Retrievers might have to take dancing lessons. It's their first time at the Big Dance.

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