Preview: UMBC at UMass Lowell in Key America East Clash

LOWELL, Mass. (Interstat) — A surging Maryland-Baltimore County squad aims to extend its winning streak when it visits Massachusetts-Lowell in an America East Conference men’s basketball game Saturday at Costello Athletic Center.

The Retrievers (19-8) enter on a seven-game winning streak, their latest a 70-58 victory over Bryant on Thursday. UMBC has not lost since Jan. 29 and sits near the top of the conference standings. The River Hawks (13-16) look to build momentum after a narrow 66-64 road loss at Vermont on Thursday.

UMBC’s run has been fueled by consistent play, particularly from guard Ace Valentine. Over the last seven games, Valentine has averaged 13.4 points and 3.4 assists, providing steady backcourt leadership. In the Jan. 24 meeting between these teams, UMBC dominated UMass Lowell 79-56 in Baltimore.

The River Hawks will counter with forward Austin Green, who is coming off a 16-point performance against Vermont and a 20-point, 13-rebound double-double in a win over Binghamton on Feb. 21. UMass Lowell has shown offensive firepower at home, scoring 92 and 88 points in its last two home contests.

Despite their record, the River Hawks have been competitive at Costello Athletic Center. UMBC, however, presents a significant challenge, boasting one of the league’s best records and a defense that has held opponents to 65 points or fewer in four of its last seven games.

Saturday’s matchup is the second of two regular-season meetings. A win would solidify UMBC’s position ahead of the conference tournament, while UMass Lowell seeks a signature victory to improve its seeding.

The game tips off at 1 p.m. EST. UMBC visits NJIT next on Tuesday, March 3, while UMass Lowell travels to Maine the same night.