COLUMBUS, Ohio - On the eve of the school's 25th all-time NCAA Tournament, the Maryland Terrapins filled their day in Columbus, Ohio with an hour shootaround, a team meeting, a media session and an open practice at Nationwide Arena.

The Terp players were affable during their 30-minute interview session with the local and national media and followed with an open practice in front of adoring fans and supporters.

The real test begins on Friday when the No. 4 seed Terps face No. 13 Valparaiso at 4:40 p.m.

Terps head coach Mark Turgeon, who led Maryland to a school record 26 regular season wins, is excited for postseason play to commence.

"This is the best time of year," said Turgeon, who previously guided Wichita State and Texas A&M to NCAA tournament appearances.  "I'm happy for our players, coaching staff and fans. It is really an enjoyable team to be around."

Named Big Ten Coach of the Year earlier this month in the school's inaugural season in the conference, Turgeon will rely on the outstanding play of All-Big Ten performers Dez Wells, Melo Trimble and Jake Layman.

Wells and Trimble, who sat at the dias answering questions earlier on Thursday, were asked to share their favorite Maryland tournament moment.

Both Terps nodded their head, smiled and agreed it was Juan Dixon.

It was Dixon, who led Maryland to its lone national championship and was named the Most Valuable Player of the Final Four in 2002, who set the standard.

"We're excited about this opportunity that we have in front of us," said Wells, who has scored in double-figures in 13 consecutive games. "It's special time and we can't wait to get started."

And who can blame Wells and the Terps who began workouts this past June to ready themselves for the ultimate opportunity.

To be a part of 'March Madness.'