James Madison University (JMU) men’s basketball concluded its 2024-25 season in the Sun Belt Tournament semifinals, marking an overall record of 20 wins. Despite their success in the regular season, the Dukes faced disappointment by not qualifying for any postseason tournaments. With the transition into the Preston Spradlin era, the focus now shifts towards enhancing the program ahead of the 2025-26 season.
Offseason goals are centered on rebuilding the roster, particularly due to the graduation of key players like Mark Freeman and anticipated transfers. The Dukes are aiming to assemble a competitive team capable of contending for the Sun Belt title and potentially breaking into the top 100 teams nationwide.
In terms of roster adjustments, JMU has made notable transfer additions, significantly enhancing their squad. Among them is Justin McBride, a forward formerly with Oklahoma State and Nevada, who averaged 7.8 points and 4.2 rebounds last season. His physicality and mid-range proficiency will bolster the team, although improving his perimeter shooting will be essential.
Cliff Davis, a guard from UT Rio Grande Valley, brings experience as a starter with an average of 12.1 points per game and commendable three-point shooting skills. Bradley Douglas, another guard, joins from Georgia Southern, offering a blend of shooting and defensive capabilities after averaging 12.6 points and 3.9 rebounds last season.
The Dukes have also secured Gabe Newhof from Spring Arbor, an NAIA standout with impressive inside scoring efficiency, and Elijah Wilborn from St. Francis and Duquesne, who adds size and defensive strength to the frontcourt. Additionally, Paul Jones III and Paul Lewis, the latter a younger brother of former Duke Matt Lewis, contribute further depth and potential to the roster.
On the other hand, the team will experience some departures, including Xavier Brown, who is moving to USF, and AJ Smith, heading to Bradley. The exits of Bryce Lindsay and Redd Thompson also mark a transition period, with Lindsay having recently earned accolades as the Sun Belt Sixth Man of the Year.
The Dukes are at a crucial juncture as they navigate the transfer portal, seeking to establish a powerhouse roster that can elevate their program in the competitive landscape of college basketball.
With promising additions like McBride, Davis, and Wilborn, there is significant hope for JMU’s basketball future, setting the stage for an exciting upcoming season. As this season closes, the groundwork for a much-anticipated comeback is being laid.