Troy University’s men’s basketball team saw its five-game winning streak end with a 73-64 loss to James Madison on Thursday night at Trojan Arena. The Trojans, now 15-7 overall and 8-2 in conference play, struggled offensively, shooting just 36.1 percent from the field, marking their third-worst performance of the season.
Despite building a nine-point lead in the first half, Troy was unable to maintain momentum and trailed for the entire second half. The team also faced challenges in rebounding, being outrebounded by James Madison 45-33.
James Madison improved to 11-11 overall and 4-6 in conference games. The Dukes were led by Cliff Davis, who scored 23 points in 30 minutes after leading scorer Justin McBride left due to injury during the first half. Davis made all of his game-high 15 first-half points from three-point range.
Troy started strong with early three-pointers from Victor Valdes and Cooper Campbell. Kerrington Kiel contributed defensively with one of Troy’s seven first-half steals. Thomas Dowd had a notable opening half, including a steal and dunk followed by a defensive rebound and made three-pointer on consecutive possessions that gave Troy its largest lead at nine points with just over nine minutes remaining before halftime.
James Madison responded quickly through Davis’s outside shooting, narrowing Troy’s advantage. Preston Fowler added another deep shot for the Dukes as they shot an efficient 50 percent from the field and took a halftime lead of 31-28.
In the second half, James Madison extended its lead early. Bradley Douglas scored all of his 14 points after halftime for the Dukes. Despite efforts from Cobi Campbell—who hit a late corner three to cut the deficit to three—the Trojans could not close the gap further as James Madison secured victory with key baskets down the stretch.
Head Coach Scott Cross commented: “James Madison was the better team today; they were very physical from the jump. They were physical guarding the ball and our ball screens. We weren’t able to get to the basket or the free throw line. They crushed us on the boards and shot a high percentage against us. We have a tough one on Saturday, so hopefully we will respond and get back to playing the right way.”
Thomas Dowd recorded his fifth consecutive double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds; his total of thirteen double-doubles this season is tied for fourth nationally. Dowd also set career highs in assists (six) and steals (five). The Trojans committed only six turnovers—a season low—and matched their season high with seven blocks.
Troy has struggled when trailing at halftime this year, holding a record of two wins and four losses under those circumstances. Historically, Troy is now one win against four losses all-time versus James Madison.
The Trojans will look to bounce back when they host App State on Saturday, January 31 at Trojan Arena; tipoff is scheduled for 3:33 p.m., with streaming available via ESPN+ and radio coverage on Troy Sports Media Network.
