Arizona Preps is proud to introduce Derek "DJ" James to the public and also to our basketball staff. James has been working with our staff now for almost 6 months, and began working with our team this spring - covering the Arizona Preps Spring Classic and the events during the NCAA Final Four weekend.
James currently is an assistant basketball coach for Sagu University, previously known as American Indian College, and head coach Tarik James. James also is a trainer locally in the valley for many high school and college players, and also is involved with an organization that works internationally to help bring players to the United States and also develop players abroad.
James was introduced to our staff by my former assistant of 5 years, Chris Buchanan. Buchanan was recently hired by University of Portland head coach Terry Porter and his staff as the Assistant Director of Basketball Operations. James will take over for Buchanan on our staff.
James will be responsible for covering the top performers throughout the state during the year, and primarily in the West Valley this season, joining several other staff members in our pursuit to cover the best in the West much better this high school season, and going forward.
James is a very nice young man with a great smile and a strong knowledge of the game, and how to develop players for the collegiate level. He has an eye for the game and also has a good understanding of what it takes to compete and be successful at a high level in college basketball and further.
We look forward to having James make big contributions to the Arizona Preps staff going forward. Look for his storys and reviews as continue to develop our coverage this season of Arizona high school and junior college basketball.
