Thursday, December 6, 2007

Dukes Spear Lancers

James Madison notched its fourth straight win, beating Longwood 84-52 on 57% shooting Wednesday night.

The Dukes (6-1, 1-0 Colonial Athletic Association) were led by guard Abdulai Jalloh with 23 points, and Madison led 46-26 at halftime. The dominating performance was expected against the Lancers (2-8), but JMU fans take nothing for granted — the team is one win short of its 2006-07 win total, as mediocrity has been the norm in recent years.

Jalloh has been heralded as the player who will bring the Dukes success, and the blueprint is working so far. Dazzmond Thornton is another transfer who has made an immediate impact. The 6-foot-7 forward is averaging 7 points and 3.2 rebounds a game, in only 13.7 minutes a game.

JMU's next contest is Dec. 17 when Radford (3-6) comes to Harrisonburg, but the game after that will be a true barometer. The Dukes play at Seton Hall (7-1) on Dec. 22. The Pirates boast a November win over Virginia, and will be heavy favorites at home.

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