VCU Downs JMU 92-87 in Preseason Basketball Thriller
Blake Harper scored 30 points to lead VCU over JMU in an overtime victory at the Siegel Center.
Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in Basketball
VCU secured a 92-87 preseason win against JMU in a hard-fought matchup that required overtime. The game was tied 77-77 at the end of regulation following a late-game rally by JMU.
Why it matters
This preseason victory highlights the offensive capabilities of VCU's roster as they prepare for the upcoming competitive season. The tight scoreline underscored the competitive depth between the two programs.
Blake Harper led the offense with 30 total points, including 11 during the overtime period. KJ Windham contributed 23 points and four assists for JMU, while Ahmad Nowell added 10 points for VCU.
The players
Blake Harper
He is a VCU basketball player who led the team with 30 points during the contest.
KJ Windham
He is a JMU athlete who recorded 23 points and four assists in the loss.
Ahmad Nowell
He is a member of the VCU basketball team who scored 10 points in the game.
The details
JMU forced the extra period by overcoming a 10-point deficit in the final 3:56 of regulation, punctuated by a game-tying reverse layup from KJ Windham with 22 seconds left. VCU ultimately pulled ahead in overtime behind the scoring performance of Blake Harper, who accounted for 11 of the team's 15 overtime points.
Timeline
October 25, 2026
Season Trajectory
This preseason result provides a snapshot of team readiness as both programs refine their lineups under the NCAA Division I preseason scheduling framework. Early wins in high-intensity environments like the Siegel Center are key for building momentum toward conference play.
Blake Harper accounted for 11 of his 30 total points during the overtime stretch, proving his reliability in high-pressure situations. The result shows that JMU maintains resilience in late-game scenarios, having erased a double-digit deficit in under four minutes.
The takeaway
Preseason games serve as a vital indicator of player conditioning and late-game execution potential. Fans should watch how scoring distribution evolves as these teams move from exhibition play into the regular season schedule.
Further reading
For more analysis on local college teams, visit the Basketball section.
