Lamar University alum Mike James wasted no time showing his value on his new NBA team Friday night.
The former Cardinals star came off the bench for the Brooklyn Nets, recording eight points, two assists and two rebounds in 21 minutes during a 109-104 win over the Boston Celtics at Barclays Center. James signed a 10-day contract earlier in the day, marking his return to the NBA after playing the last two seasons for CSKA Moscow in Russia.
James, a former EuroLeague scoring champion, was suspended indefinitely by CSKA in late March after an altercation with coach Dimitris Itoudis. While he was on a three-year deal until 2023, the Russian powerhouse let him go.
CSKA’s loss looks to be Brooklyn’s gain as the Nets need depth in the backcourt. Brooklyn is currently missing James Harden, Spencer Dinwiddie, Tyler Johnson and Chris Chiozza.
James scored in different ways Friday night, showing off is range from deep while also driving through the lane at times. He finished 3-of-8 shooting from the field and was plus-17 while on the court.
James is a nine-year professional with most of that experience coming overseas. He played 32 games for the Phoenix Suns during the 2017-18 season, as well as four games for the New Orleans Pelicans.
A 2012 graduate of Lamar, James helped lead the Cardinals to a Southland Conference championship during his senior year. He was named the tournament’s most valuable player.
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