James Madison University defeats North Carolina Central 67-62 to extend winning streak, but Cliff Davis’s clutch late-game heroics tell a much bigger story

James Madison University pulled off a thrilling 67-62 victory over North Carolina Central on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. The Dukes mounted a devastating 13-3 run in the final minutes to extend their winning streak. Despite shooting just 34.6% from the field, JMU’s late surge proved unstoppable and unforgettable.

Late Surge Caps Dramatic Victory for Dukes

James Madison University won the game in the final stretch after falling behind 59-54 with just under five minutes remaining in the second half.

The Dukes sparked their comeback when Cliff Davis tied the game at 59-59 with a critical three-pointer off an Eagles turnover. That shot triggered momentum that would carry JMU to victory.

Following Davis’s three-pointer, Gabe Newhof scored on a crucial layup and Davis connected on another three-pointer after another NC Central turnover, sealing the game for the home team.

Cliff Davis Leads Scoring Attack for Harrisonburg

Player	Points	Key Contribution
Cliff Davis (JMU)	18	Eight points in final minutes
Justin McBride (JMU)	16	Nine of 16 on free throws
Gage Lattimore (NC Central)	29	Game-high scoring output
Gabe Newhof (JMU)	8	Layup in crucial final moments

Justin McBride added 16 points and pulled down six rebounds for the Dukes. Eddie Ricks III contributed five points, three assists, and grabbed a team-high seven rebounds.

NC Central was led by Gage Lattimore, who scored a game-high 29 points despite the loss. Dionte Johnson added 16 points for the Eagles in the non-conference matchup.

First Half Shooting Sets Foundation for Comeback

James Madison controlled the opening twenty minutes, jumping out to a comfortable 35-24 halftime lead at the Atlantic Union Bank Center.

Back-to-back three-pointers from Cliff Davis and Preston Fowler gave the Dukes an early 25-16 advantage. Paul Jones III extended the lead to 31-20 with a three-pointer with 2:44 remaining in the half.

JMU shot an impressive 6-of-13 (.46) from three-point range in the opening half, while NC Central struggled from long range, missing all nine of its attempts and shooting just .36 from the floor.

Eagles Rally Before Late Dukes Surge Seals Victory

North Carolina Central cut into the Dukes’ lead significantly in the second half, even taking the lead at 50-50 with 6:58 remaining.

The Eagles held their first lead since early in the first half, but JMU evened the contest at 59-59 on that crucial Cliff Davis three-pointer off an NC Central turnover with 2:59 on the clock.

That moment shifted momentum completely in JMU’s favor, and the Dukes maintained the lead through the final minute and a half to secure the 67-62 victory in front of their home crowd.

What Does the Fourth Straight Victory Mean for James Madison?

The win over North Carolina Central marks James Madison’s fourth consecutive victory, positioning the Dukes well in non-conference play.

JMU has shown resilience and improved execution in recent games, particularly in tight contests like this one. The ability to execute late-game situations and convert key moments separates championship teams from the rest.

Coach Preston Spradlin’s team improves to 6-4 overall entering a matchup with Norfolk State on Saturday, December 6 at 2 p.m. at the Atlantic Union Bank Center in Harrisonburg.

Sources

• ESPN – Official game recap and box score
• James Madison Athletics – Official Dukes sports commentary
• AP Sports – Associated Press game coverage