The Lamar University graduate, known as a clutch baskets and spectacular moments specialist, is full of adventures. In his 7 years as a pro he played for 9 different teams in Croatian, Greek, Israeli, Spanish and Italian leagues. James also played 36 NBA games in 2017-18 season for Phoenix and New Orleans averaging 9.3 points, 2.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists in 19.1 minutes.
2018-19 season was statistically best for Mike. He was awarded with Alphonso Ford Trophy as the EuroLeague best scorer (19.8 points). He also averaged 6.4 assists (2nd in the competition) and also led the EuroLeague in three-pointers, field goals, free throws, fouls received and playing time, he was also third in steals.
As a result of rebuilding in Olimpia Milan he lost his place on the roster. The sides agreed to terminate the contract, valid until 2021.
James’ collection also features Greek League and Cup wins as well as Italian SuperCup won last year with Olimpia.
Mike becomes the ninth foreign player on our team roster for the upcoming season. Russian League regulations allow to have eigth foreign players plus another one who is allowed to play in the European competitions only. The player who will be available for EuroLeague games only will be named by the coaching staff before the start of the official season.
Dimitris Itoudis, CSKA head coach:
Mike is a very talented player, who can create his own shots and open up situations for his teammates. During all these years in the EuroLeague and on different levels, he proved that he can score, but he also needs to adjust our system. He already committed in our talks that he is ready to do so. We wish him to stay healthy and help our team achieve new goals.
Now, with all the signings done, the first important thing we have to do is to realize that this team has nothing to do with the championship roster of last season. We have to forget about our success as soon as possible, especially as it refers to the ones who have been around the team last year. Our preparation will be very difficult because 6-7 players from different countries will represent CSKA at the World Cup. We need to become a team, to be decisive, to work all together and to play good team basketball.
Mike James, CSKA guard:
I’m excited to join a team with winning expectations and a winning mentality. I’m honored that coach Itoudis chose me and let me come and join a team that won the EuroLeague last year, and I’m ready to help the team win in any way possible.
