James Madison basketball is the intercollegiate basketball program representing James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. The men’s team competes in the Sun Belt Conference, while the women’s team competes in the Colonial Athletic Association.
Both the men’s and women’s basketball teams have a long and successful history. The men’s team has won two NCAA Tournament games, and the women’s team has won one. Both teams have also won multiple conference championships.
James Madison basketball is a popular and well-supported program in the Harrisonburg community. The Dukes have a strong fan base that fills the stands at home games. The program is also a source of pride for the university and the city of Harrisonburg.
James Madison Basketball
James Madison basketball is a Division I program that competes in the Sun Belt Conference. The Dukes have a long and successful history, having won two NCAA Tournament games and multiple conference championships.
- History: The Dukes have been playing basketball since 1972.
- Success: The Dukes have won two NCAA Tournament games and multiple conference championships.
- Players: The Dukes have had a number of successful players, including NBA player Justin Anderson.
- Coaches: The Dukes have had a number of successful coaches, including Lefty Driesell and Matt Brady.
- Fans: The Dukes have a passionate fan base that fills the stands at home games.
- Tradition: The Dukes have a number of traditions, including the “Duke Dog” mascot.
- Community: The Dukes are an important part of the Harrisonburg community.
- Academics: The Dukes have a strong academic program.
- Future: The Dukes have a bright future under head coach Mark Byington.
The Dukes are a successful and well-respected basketball program. They have a long and successful history, and they have a bright future. The Dukes are an important part of the Harrisonburg community, and they are a source of pride for the university and the city.
History
The history of James Madison basketball dates back to 1972, when the university fielded its first varsity team. The Dukes have been playing basketball at the Division I level since 1976, and they have been members of the Sun Belt Conference since 2013.
The Dukes have a long and successful history, having won two NCAA Tournament games and multiple conference championships. Some of the most notable players in James Madison basketball history include Justin Anderson, who went on to play in the NBA, and Lefty Driesell, who coached the Dukes to their first NCAA Tournament appearance in 1976.
The Dukes are an important part of the Harrisonburg community, and they have a passionate fan base that fills the stands at home games. The Dukes are also a source of pride for the university and the city of Harrisonburg.
Success
The success of James Madison basketball is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, coaches, and staff. The Dukes have won two NCAA Tournament games and multiple conference championships, which is a remarkable achievement for a mid-major program.
The Dukes’ success has helped to raise the profile of the program and the university. James Madison is now a respected basketball program, and the Dukes are consistently ranked among the top teams in the Sun Belt Conference.
The Dukes’ success has also had a positive impact on the Harrisonburg community. The Dukes are a source of pride for the city, and their success has helped to attract new businesses and residents to the area.
Players
James Madison basketball has a long and successful history, and a big part of that success is due to the talented players who have played for the Dukes.
- Justin Anderson: Anderson is the most successful player to come out of the James Madison basketball program. He was a two-time All-CAA selection and was named the CAA Player of the Year in 2015. He was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the first round of the 2015 NBA Draft and has played for several teams in the NBA.
- Other successful players: In addition to Anderson, a number of other James Madison players have gone on to have successful careers in professional basketball. Some of these players include:
- Charles Cooke: Cooke was a two-time All-CAA selection and was named the CAA Defensive Player of the Year in 2016. He was drafted by the New Orleans Pelicans in the second round of the 2016 NBA Draft.
- Matt Brady: Brady was a two-time All-CAA selection and was named the CAA Player of the Year in 2005. He played professionally in Europe for several years.
- Darius Banks: Banks was a two-time All-CAA selection and was named the CAA Player of the Year in 2004. He played professionally in Europe for several years.
The success of these players is a testament to the quality of the James Madison basketball program. The Dukes have a long history of developing talented players, and they continue to be one of the top programs in the Sun Belt Conference.
Coaches
The success of James Madison basketball is in part due to the talented coaches who have led the program. Two of the most successful coaches in James Madison basketball history are Lefty Driesell and Matt Brady.
- Lefty Driesell: Driesell coached the Dukes from 1972 to 1976 and led them to their first NCAA Tournament appearance in 1976. He is the winningest coach in James Madison basketball history, with a record of 86-44.
- Matt Brady: Brady coached the Dukes from 2005 to 2016 and led them to two NCAA Tournament appearances and two CAA Championships. He is the second winningest coach in James Madison basketball history, with a record of 219-151.
These two coaches have helped to establish James Madison basketball as a successful program in the Sun Belt Conference. They have both recruited talented players and developed them into successful basketball players. They have also both led the Dukes to NCAA Tournament appearances, which is a major accomplishment for a mid-major program.
Fans
The passionate fan base of James Madison basketball is a key component of the program’s success. The Dukes have a long history of selling out home games, and the fans create a loud and intimidating atmosphere for opposing teams.
The fans’ support is especially important during close games and during the NCAA Tournament. In 2013, the Dukes upset the heavily favored Indiana Hoosiers in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. The fans were a major factor in the Dukes’ victory, as they created a hostile environment for the Hoosiers and helped to energize the Dukes’ players.
The fans’ support also has a positive impact on the Harrisonburg community. The Dukes are a source of pride for the city, and their success helps to attract new businesses and residents to the area.
Tradition
Traditions are an important part of any sports program, and James Madison basketball is no exception. The Dukes have a number of traditions that help to create a unique and memorable experience for fans. One of the most popular traditions is the “Duke Dog” mascot.
- The “Duke Dog” mascot
The “Duke Dog” is a live bulldog that serves as the mascot for James Madison University. The “Duke Dog” has been a part of the university community since 1972, and he is a popular figure at all James Madison sporting events. The “Duke Dog” is known for his friendly personality and his love of interacting with fans.
- Other traditions
In addition to the “Duke Dog,” James Madison basketball has a number of other traditions. These traditions include:
- The “Madison Madhouse” student section
- The “Star-Spangled Banner” sing-along
- The “Victory Bell”
These traditions help to create a unique and memorable experience for fans, and they are an important part of the James Madison basketball experience.
Traditions are an important part of any sports program, and they help to create a sense of community and belonging. The James Madison basketball program has a number of traditions that help to make it a special experience for fans. These traditions are a part of what makes James Madison basketball so unique, and they are an important part of the program’s identity.
Community
James Madison University is a major employer in Harrisonburg, Virginia, with over 4,000 faculty and staff. The university also contributes to the local economy through its spending on goods and services. In addition, James Madison basketball is a major draw for visitors to the city. The Dukes’ home games are often sold out, and fans from all over the region come to Harrisonburg to watch the team play.
The Dukes’ success on the court has also helped to raise the profile of Harrisonburg. The city is now known as a college basketball town, and it is a popular destination for sports fans. The Dukes’ success has also helped to attract new businesses to Harrisonburg, which has further boosted the local economy.
The James Madison basketball program is an important part of the Harrisonburg community. The Dukes provide entertainment and excitement for fans, and they also contribute to the local economy. The Dukes are a source of pride for the city, and they help to make Harrisonburg a great place to live and work.
Academics
James Madison University is a public research university with a strong academic reputation. The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including a number of programs that are related to basketball.
The university’s College of Health and Behavioral Studies offers a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training and a Master of Science in Athletic Training. These programs prepare students to work with athletes and help them prevent and recover from injuries.
The university’s College of Education offers a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and a Master of Science in Physical Education. These programs prepare students to teach physical education at the elementary and secondary levels.
The university’s College of Business offers a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Sport Management. This program prepares students for careers in the sports industry.
The university’s strong academic programs provide James Madison basketball players with the opportunity to get a well-rounded education while also pursuing their basketball careers.
Future
The future of James Madison basketball is bright under head coach Mark Byington. Byington is a young and energetic coach who has a proven track record of success. He has led the Dukes to two NCAA Tournament appearances in his first three seasons, and he has recruited a talented group of players who are poised to make a deep run in the tournament this year.
One of the things that makes Byington such a successful coach is his ability to develop players. He has a knack for getting the most out of his players, and he has a proven track record of helping players reach their full potential. Under Byington’s leadership, the Dukes have become one of the most exciting teams in the Sun Belt Conference. They play an up-tempo style of basketball that is fun to watch, and they are always competitive. The Dukes are a legitimate threat to win the Sun Belt Conference this year, and they have the potential to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
Byington is a rising star in the coaching ranks, and he is poised to lead the Dukes to great things. He has a bright future ahead of him, and the Dukes are lucky to have him.
Frequently Asked Questions about James Madison Basketball
James Madison University’s basketball program has a rich history and a dedicated fan base. Here are some frequently asked questions about the Dukes:
Question 1: When was the James Madison basketball program founded?
The James Madison basketball program was founded in 1972.
Question 2: What conference does the James Madison basketball team play in?
The James Madison basketball team plays in the Sun Belt Conference.
Question 3: Who is the head coach of the James Madison basketball team?
Mark Byington is the head coach of the James Madison basketball team.
Question 4: What is the name of the James Madison basketball team’s mascot?
The James Madison basketball team’s mascot is the “Duke Dog.”
Question 5: Where does the James Madison basketball team play its home games?
The James Madison basketball team plays its home games at the Atlantic Union Bank Center.
Question 6: What is the James Madison basketball team’s fight song?
The James Madison basketball team’s fight song is “The Madison Fight Song.”
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about James Madison basketball. For more information, please visit the official website of the James Madison Dukes.
Summary:
The James Madison basketball program is a successful and well-respected program. The Dukes have a long and successful history, and they have a bright future. The Dukes are an important part of the Harrisonburg community, and they are a source of pride for the university and the city.
Transition:
To learn more about James Madison basketball, please visit the official website of the James Madison Dukes.
Tips for James Madison Basketball
James Madison basketball is a successful and well-respected program. The Dukes have a long and successful history, and they have a bright future. The Dukes are an important part of the Harrisonburg community, and they are a source of pride for the university and the city.
Here are some tips for James Madison basketball:
Tip 1: Attend a game at the Atlantic Union Bank Center.
The Atlantic Union Bank Center is a great place to watch a basketball game. The atmosphere is electric, and the fans are passionate. You can purchase tickets online or at the box office.
Tip 2: Support the Dukes on social media.
The Dukes have a strong social media presence. You can follow them on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. By following the Dukes on social media, you can stay up-to-date on the latest news and events.
Tip 3: Get involved with the James Madison Basketball Association.
The James Madison Basketball Association is a booster club that supports the Dukes basketball program. By joining the JMBA, you can help to provide financial support for the program and get exclusive access to events and experiences.
Tip 4: Donate to the James Madison Basketball program.
You can make a donation to the James Madison Basketball program online or by mail. Your donation will help to support the program and provide the Dukes with the resources they need to be successful.
Tip 5: Be a positive fan.
The Dukes need your support, both on and off the court. Be a positive fan and help to create a great atmosphere at the games. Cheer for the Dukes and encourage them to victory.
By following these tips, you can help to support the James Madison basketball program and be a part of the Dukes’ success.
Summary:
The James Madison basketball program is a successful and well-respected program. The Dukes have a long and successful history, and they have a bright future. The Dukes are an important part of the Harrisonburg community, and they are a source of pride for the university and the city.
Transition:
To learn more about James Madison basketball, please visit the official website of the James Madison Dukes.
Conclusion
James Madison University’s basketball program has a rich history and has consistently achieved success on and off the court. With a dedicated fan base, talented players, and a strong coaching staff, the Dukes are poised to continue their legacy of excellence.
The future of James Madison basketball is bright. The Dukes have a strong foundation and are well-positioned to compete for championships in the years to come. The program’s commitment to academic excellence and community involvement makes it a valuable asset to the university and the Harrisonburg community.
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