Image courtesy of JMU Athletics Communications

By Bennett Conlin (This content was originally published in our newsletter)

CAA Tournament begins – The Dukes enter the tournament as the heavy favorite. The tournament only includes four teams, which means the Dukes just have to win two games to be crowned CAA champs. (Math!)

Given the team’s depth and defensive prowess, it’s tough to see them not winning the title at home. Hofstra and Towson are both capable of keeping the title game close, though. 

The bracket – As you can see above, it’s a small bracket since it’s a four-team tournament. The Dukes likely won’t have much issue with Elon, but will face a tougher test in the title game. Expect JMU to win the CAA with a blowout in the semifinals before winning a closer game in the championship.

Home-field advantage – We alluded to the Dukes playing at home earlier. If you’re unaware this year’s tournament is hosted in Harrisonburg, which gives JMU a boost. The Dukes should draw reasonable crowds, especially with a bunch of families in town for graduation.