James Madison University’s women’s basketball team is stirring up excitement as they hope for a chance to compete in the NCAA Tournament after finishing their regular season with an outstanding record of 28 wins and only 5 losses. Most impressively, they went a perfect 18-0 in their Sun Belt Conference! This remarkable achievement has the fans buzzing and the team ready to prove themselves on a national stage.
A Dominant Season
JMU’s women’s basketball team has shown incredible skill and teamwork throughout the season. Their perfect conference record not only demonstrates their dominance over other teams but also sets them up for a strong case when it comes to selecting candidates for the NCAA tournament. Here are some highlights from their season:
- Undefeated in the Sun Belt conference at 18-0.
- Overall record of 28-5, including an impressive 12 wins on the road.
- Ranked 54th nationally in the NET rankings, with a solid non-conference strength of schedule that ranks 26th.
- Key victories over teams like VCU, Villanova, and Florida, showcasing their ability to compete against tough opponents.
- A remarkable 20-game winning streak, highlighting their consistent performance throughout the season.
A Near Miss in the Championship Game
Even with their superb season, JMU faced a heartbreaking moment in the Sun Belt Championship game, where they lost to Arkansas State in overtime. JMU had a solid lead during the game but couldn’t seal the deal. Still, their performance overall has left a lasting impression on fans and analysts alike:
- JMU led by as much as 17 points at one time, showcasing their early-game strength.
- Despite the loss, they have established themselves as a tough competitor and fan favorite.
- Their performance in overtime highlighted their resilience and determination, even when the going got tough.
The NCAA Selection Process
As JMU anxiously waits for the NCAA selection committee to announce the tournament field, fans are hopeful that their strong record will be enough to secure an at-large bid. Being on the bubble means that while they have a chance, there is still uncertainty about whether they will be picked. Many are discussing their chances, with some bracketology projections showing them just outside the expected participants, but the overall enthusiasm remains high! Factors that will influence their selection include:
- The impressive quality of their wins against known schools.
- The strength of their non-conference schedule, which puts them in a favorable light.
- What the committee values in teams: win-loss records, quality of competition, and recent performance trends.
A Future to Look Forward To
Whether they make it to the NCAA tournament or not, JMU’s women’s basketball program has proven that they can compete at a high level. The hard work and dedication from the players and coaching staff are evident and should be celebrated regardless of the upcoming decision from the NCAA committee. Fans will be eagerly watching their fate unfold, and hopefully, we’ll see the Dukes on the court in the tournament!
Join the Excitement
For fans wanting to follow JMU’s journey closer, it’s essential to stay updated. Watching the NCAA selection show will be key, and attending future games as they aim to building on their past success will keep the spirit alive in the community. Cheer them on as they strive for greatness!
