James signs with Lamar University/Monsters sophomore led ACCAC in scoring in 2009-10

By Brian Wright
Sports Editor
Published on Wednesday, May 26, 2010 9:14 AM MST

Mike James had the talent to end up at a number of schools to play college basketball.

After mulling his options, James signed a National Letter of Intent on Friday with Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas.

Other schools that showed interest in the 6-1 guard during his time at Eastern Arizona College were Nebraska, Portland State, Santa Clara (Calif.) and the University of Detroit, among many others.

Mike James, who led the ACCAC in scoring at 25.9 points per game last season, signed Friday with Division I Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas. Photo by Brian Wright

Lamar University is a Division I program, but why did James choose the Cardinals?

“They were in at the right time and the right place,” EAC coach Maurice Leitzke said of Lamar. “(James) was ready to sign.”

Discipline issues could have scared some schools away.

During his two years in Thatcher, fans often criticized James’ effort and attitude.

Despite those characteristics, James possesses rare athleticism and ability.

The combination of his character and his skills make James an intriguing and sometimes frustrating figure.

Leitzke said James has to continue to mature if he wants to remain successful at the next level.

“It’s not just a physical game. The higher the level you (play), the more it becomes a mental game, (and) the more mentally tough you have to be,” Leitzke said.

Fans in Thatcher will remember James mostly for his high-flying dunks and spectacular scoring performances.

As a sophomore last season, James led the ACCAC in scoring by a large margin with 25.9 points per game.

Other things that attracted James to Lamar were the fact that its gym seats about 10,000 and that it has a warm climate, Leitzke said.

Lamar plays in the Southland Conference, which was won last season by Sam Houston State (25-8, 14-2).

The Southland has 12 teams that are split into two divisions of six. Lamar (14-18, 5-11) finished last in the West division in 2009-10.

The Cardinals badly needed a player with scoring ability, and they got one in James.

If James can keep his attitude in check and give max effort every game, there’s no telling what his future holds.

“Mike has heard me say for two years that he has the ability to take basketball as far as he wants to take it,” Leitzke said.

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