With 2023 concluded, it’s time to look back at one of the most memorable JMU sports years in history. The Dukes excelled across numerous sports, including football, and fans were treated to some of the biggest wins in school history.
For the first time in 40 years, JMU football faced the University of Virginia on the gridiron. The game lived up to its potential, with both teams playing quality football for stretches. JMU jumped out to a 14-0 lead before UVA rebounded and led 28-17 in the second half. JMU trailed 35-24 going into a fourth-quarter rain delay. Once the weather passed, JMU emerged from the locker room and looked like one of the best Group of Five teams in the country. Quarterback Jordan McCloud engineered a pair of touchdown drives, leading JMU to a 36-35 win that culminated with a game-winning touchdown pass to running back Kaelon Black.
Beating UVA on their home turf was an incredible experience. The team showed resilience and determination, never giving up until the final whistle. It was a historic win for JMU, said Coach O’Regan.
2023 was a special season for JMU football, which went 11-2 and made the first bowl game in program history. Few moments were as special as when ESPN’s College GameDay came to Harrisonburg for the third time, visiting in November for JMU’s matchup with App State. The game, a JMU loss, was as entertaining as any JMU football game all season. Both sides nearly won the game late, but App State ultimately held on to win the thriller. Even with the loss, most JMU fans will tell you the weekend was one of the events of the year.
The atmosphere during the App State game was electric. Our fans really showed up, and it was an incredible experience to have the College GameDay crew at JMU once again, said quarterback Jordan McCloud.
JMU’s success extended beyond the football field. The women’s basketball team, led by Coach O’Regan, clinched their first conference championship in memorable fashion, defeating Texas State 81-50 in the league title game. Kiki Jefferson and Peyton McDaniel put on a show, scoring a combined 52 points. McDaniel was unstoppable, shooting a perfect 10-11 from the field and a flawless 7-7 from beyond the 3-point line.
We worked so hard all season, and to see it pay off with a conference championship is a dream come true. We couldn’t have done it without the support of our amazing fans, said Jefferson.
As JMU Sports Coordinator Samantha Johnson noted, 2023 was a standout year for JMU sports. We saw our teams achieve great success, create lasting memories, and build a strong foundation for the future. The dedication and talent of our athletes, combined with the unwavering support of the JMU community, made it all possible.
With 2023 in the rearview mirror, JMU fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming seasons and hope for even more unforgettable moments on the playing field. The Dukes have shown their prowess as a force to be reckoned with, and it’s clear that the future is bright for JMU sports.
