3 things to love about Louisville basketball’s newest commit

Toughness

When you’re talking about the game of Mike James the first thing that has to be noted is his toughness. For two years we’ve heard Chris Mack gush about the toughness of Dwayne Sutton while continually pushing and imploring the rest of his guys to raise their level of play and tenacity on the floor.

Mack expects a certain level of mental and physical toughness and that is why he made James a priority throughout the recruiting cycle of 2021. At 6’6, 195-pounds, he’s a big-bodied wing who is capable of playing several different spots and guarding multiple positions at an extremely high level.

Corey Evans of Rivals wrote about James and what he brings to the floor, saying:

"“James brings great toughness and versatility to the floor. He is a two-way producer that immediately impacts the game thanks to his instincts, energy and physicality around the basket. Capable of playing arguably up to three separate positions in the half-court, James’ continued progressions as an all-around ballplayer should allow for him to contribute as an underclassman in college.”"

That versatility and toughness is exactly what Louisville needs as Mack continues to put his imprint on the roster and when you combine James with the likes of El Ellis, Bobby Pettiford Jr., D’Andre Davis, and others, you’re talking about a group that will be defined by their mental fortitude and willingness to handle the toughest of situations.

A lot of the times you get players who are physically tough and display strong mental toughness but that’s the only special trait you get. That’s definitely not the case with James, as he’s shown the ability to play with just as much finesse as he does pure brute.

Regardless, Mack is getting a player who can bring that Dwayne Sutton, warrior-like mentality on a nightly basis.