James Madison University - Bluestone Schoolmaam Yearbook (Harrisonburg, VA)

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Seldom does any JMU event evoke as much enthusiasm as the basketball game against arch-rival Virginia Common- wealth University did this season. Be- fore the game began, the fans were brought to their feet by the introduction of JMU ' s new mascot, Duke III. Sigma Phi Epsilon introduced the seven- month-old English bulldog, which they purchased as a service project for the university. JMU had been without a mascot since Duke II died in August 1978. Duke III quickly took on the duties assigned to him. He barked at the band, pranced around the floor and received ample attention. The university owns the dog, and two faculty members, Drs. Mr. and Mrs. Nel- son take care of him between home games. The capacity crowd never rested and the noise level vibrated every comer of Sinclair Gym, as the fearful memory of last second, one point defeats filled the air. For two years, the two teams played into overtime. And for two years, the game ended in despair for the Dukes. This year was different. JMU had a two-point lead with 14 seconds left, but the Rams had possession of the ball. With si. seconds remaining, VCU ' s Danny Kottak sent the ball that could have caused a second overtime. But this time the ball flew off the rim and into the hands of skying Steve Steilper. He tucked it safely under his arms for the final seconds. The crowd exploded with ecstacy. The exciting 53-51 win will not be quickly forgotten. We finally beat VCU. 28 Highlights

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Highlights 27

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VCU, You ' ve Been DUKED! WELCOME V RGINIA v CoLLErrE Highlights 29