Colonial Athletic Conference report

SportsLine report
March 14, 2000

Lady luck was obviously smiling on the James Madison Dukes this year after multiple last-second victories produced one of the best records in the school's history. The only problem was, Richmond didn't give the Dukes a chance to win in the final seconds during the conference tournament.

James Madison was 7-2 in games decided by three points or fewer this season, including a game-winning fadeaway 3-pointer by Mickey Dennis to beat Richmond 65-64 on Jan. 29. Part of the reason for their successes was First Team All-CAA guard Jabari Outtz, a powerful senior who was third in the CAA in scoring and assists with 17 points per game and 4.5 assists.

But the big problem with the Dukes was defense, as their 80-65 loss to Richmond in the conference tournament semifinal game proved. JMU was fifth in the CAA in scoring defense, giving up 66.8 points per game, and lack of discipline resulted in an inability to slow teams down, forcing the Dukes to hit game-winners to take a victory.

The Coach

The jury's still out on Sherman Dillard's tenure at James Madison. After replacing the infamous Lefty Driesell in 1997, Dillard has posted a 47-35 record overall and 27-23 conference ledger. But even though Dillard put together one of the best records in JMU history this year, the Dukes had to win many of those at the last second and Dillard's teams have advanced past the quarterfinals just once. That was this year, and JMU was manhandled by Richmond.

So the big question facing Dillard in the coming years will be, can he win in tournament play? Coaches and media certainly favor his ability in the regular season: He was an overwhelming winner of the CAA's Coach of the Year.

Who'll be Back

Mickey Dennis is a solid shooter whose confidence rose with each game-winning shot he took, including the one that beat Richmond in the regular season. Pat Mitchell came on at the end of the year, and as his strong freshman body chisels out over his career, Mitchell's 6-foot-7 frame should become more versatile away from the basket. The Dukes shouldn't lose much inside with 6-foot-10 Ian Caskill and 6-foot-8 Tim Lyle showing promise this season.

Who's Gone

Everyone who led the team this season won't be back next year. Jabari Outtz and his 17 points, 4.5 assists? Gone. Jamar Perry, Outtz's backcourt comrade? Gone. Rob Strickland and his 6-foot-10, 260-pound body who was fourth in the CAA in blocked shots (1.57 bpg)? Gone. That leaves plenty of building for the Dukes next year, and a lot of returning players will need to step up, or the Dukes will fall back into the middle of the pack.

Key Newcomers

SF Ron Anderson, 6-5, 210: A transfer from North Carolina State, he is expected to see major minutes right away and could be a starter. He's a good defender and smart player and could help the team maintain its status as a league power.

PG Chris Williams, 6-2, 180: Not a big name in recruiting circles, but JMU coaches believe he can come in and, like Anderson, become a starter nearly immediately.

SG/SF Dwayne Broyles, 6-4, 190: A solid perimeter prospect who could challenge for some playing time next year.

F Kevin Bower, 6-7, 210: Third recruit from New Jersey in four seasons. May redshirt, though he could see some time in the frontcourt as a reserve.