By Nikos Varlas/ varlas@eurohoops.net
Offensive juggernaut Mike James will extend his contract with CSKA Moscow for three more years, according to Eurohoops sources. The 29-year-old guard was reportedly finalizing an extension and will indeed re-sign, despite recent rumors.
The Portland-born guard inked a one-year contract with CSKA last summer. The coronavirus pandemic prevented him from completing his run with the Russian club in both the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague and the VTB United League.
Prior to the decision to cancel the remaining games, the 2019 Alphonso Ford EuroLeague Top Scorer Trophy recipient averaged 21.1 points, 4.3 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per EuroLeague game lifting his side to a 19-9 record. He also put up 17.6 points per VTB contest.
Will Clyburn’s season-ending injury in October further inserted him into a prominent offensive role under the guidance of Dimitris Itoudis. The 2019 Final Four MVP sidelined failed to deliver a knockout punch as CSKA and James took on the challenge successfully, at least until the premature end of the season.
The Eastern Arizona and Lamar alum previously competed in 112 EuroLeague matches between Baskonia (2014-16), Panathinaikos (2016-18), and Milano (2018-19). Combined with his shortened 2019-29 campaign and through 140 career appearances has posted 15.5 points per contest.
He also appeared in 36 NBA games for the Phoenix Suns and the New Orleans Pelicans during the 2017-18 season.