Overview
- Arizona head coach Tommy Lloyd confirmed Tuesday that the freshman guard will sit the 2025–26 season to retain a year of eligibility.
- James has not appeared in a game for the top-ranked, unbeaten Wildcats, who have relied on a settled rotation during their 22-0 start.
- Lloyd called the decision a “long play,” citing James’ progress learning the system and ongoing physical maturation.
- Fellow freshmen Brayden Burries and Koa Peat are leading the team in scoring at 15.3 and 14.8 points per game, underscoring Arizona’s depth.
- Public reaction has included commentary about potential NIL implications and future draft timing, with those views presented as opinion rather than team rationale.