BALTIMORE, Md. -- The #20 James Madison Dukes (11-0) are gearing up for a non-conference matchup against the Morgan State Bears (4-9) at the Hill Field House in Baltimore, Md., tomorrow afternoon at 1 p.m.
The Dukes are on a remarkable 11-game win streak, tying them with Houston and Mississippi for the longest active streak in college basketball. They currently stand as one of only three Division I teams with an unblemished record, and their high-scoring offense, averaging 92.9 points per game, will face off against a Morgan State team who plays exceptionally well at home.
Notes to Know
- While JMU boasts an impressive 8-2 historical record against Morgan State, their last encounter resulted in a tough loss, breaking an 8-game win streak in the matchup. With their own added history on the line, the Dukes are determined to bounce back and secure a victory in their first-ever meeting at the Hill Field House.Â
- Coach Mark Byington is on the verge of a milestone, eyeing career win #200.
- Morgan State, led by Head Coach Kevin Broadus, aims to capitalize on their home-court advantage at the Hill Field House. The Bears, with a 4-9 record, have shown strength at home, winning all four of their games at this venue. Coach Broadus is also nearing history of his own, as he currently has 98 career wins.Â
Dukes Dominant Dynamics
- The Dukes set a program record with 22 steals against Coppin State on Tuesday. The previous best was 21, which they had against Limestone (11/25/20 - W, 89-55), and also against Carlow (11/10/21 - W, 135-40).
- The 30 turnovers forced by JMU tied a program record. The Dukes forced 30 vs. Furman (12/1/1984) & Buffalo (11/12/2022)
- Michael Green III picked up a career-high six steals, while T.J. Bickerstaff scored 18 points on 8-of-9 shooting, boosting his season field goal percentage to 68.5%, which ranks 5th nationally and leads the conference. Green's 45.2% mark from 3-point land is good for 17th in the country and leads the Sun Belt, while his 54 assists lead the Sun Belt and rank 69th nationally.Â
- JMU brought its season average to 92.9 points per game, which still leads the country.
Scouting the Bears
- Morgan State is coming off a tough 83-76 loss to Campbell, but strong performances from Amahrie Simpkins (23 pts) and Will Thomas (22 pts) showcased the team's offensive capabilities.
- Guards Kamron Hobbs and forward Will Thomas were named to the preseason All-MEAC second team, emphasizing their importance in the Bears' lineup.
- The Bears, with a 14-3 record in their last 17 home games, will look to use their home-court advantage against the Dukes. Coach Kevin Broadus is approaching his 100th win, adding an extra layer of motivation for the team.
What's at Stake
- JMU and Morgan State will face off for the 11th time in their history, with the Dukes holding an 8-2 advantage.
- The Dukes aim to avenge their last loss to Morgan State in 2021Â and maintain their undefeated record, crucial for their standing in the national rankings.
- In the 10 games played between these teams, JMU has not faced Morgan State on the road, making this matchup at the Hill Field House unique.
- Against current MEAC teams, JMU boasts a strong 25-8 record, and a win against Morgan State will further solidify their dominance within the conference.
Don't miss the action as the James Madison Dukes look to extend their undefeated streak against the Morgan State Bears at the Hill Field House in Baltimore, Md. Tune in on Morgan State All-Access for live coverage, follow @JMUMBasketball on Twitter for updates, and catch radio commentary with Corey Spector on 92.1 FM / 550 AM and the Varsity Network App