UMBC Basketball: 2018-19 season preview for the Retrievers

CHARLOTTE, NC - MARCH 16: Josh Rosario #1 of the UMBC Retrievers reacts from the bench during the second half of their game against the Virginia Cavaliers during the first round of the 2018 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Spectrum Center on March 16, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) /

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Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images /

UMBC Basketball may have something special brewing in the America East Conference after an improbable run in the NCAA Tournament.

The UMBC Retrievers made history in their second-ever appearance in the NCAA Tournament this past season. They became the first 16-seed ever to defeat a No. 1 seed after defeating the Virginia Cavaliers, 74-54, in the first round of the 2018 NCAA Tournament. Their Cinderella story was short-lived after that, but they’ll be back in 2018-19, looking to win the America East once again.

The Retrievers won an automatic bid to the 2018 NCAA Tournament after defeating the Vermont Catamounts, 65-62, in the conference tournament championship after finishing second during the regular season. Their backcourt of Jairus Lyles and K.J. Maura had quite the effect in 2017-18. Lyles produced 20.2 points per contest while Maura finished with 11.3 points per contest. With both seniors gone, a new star will need to emerge for the Retrievers.

They’ll be fine with players returning in the frontcourt, but they’ll need for a few newcomers to step up this upcoming season. As they look for their third consecutive 20-win season under head coach Ryan Odom, it may be difficult for them to recreate their NCAA Tournament magic from a year ago. Odom is 46-24 (.657) so far through two seasons as head coach. Under Odom, they should still be considered a favorite to win the America East Conference crown once again. Here’s a look at the 2018-19 season preview for the UMBC Retrievers.

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