Former Byers star signs with Mississippi Valley State

Michael James wanted to prove a standout basketball player at Class 1A H.W. Byers can excel at the next level. He did it in junior college, and now he's taking his talents to Division 1.

After two years at Meridian Community College, the 2023 graduate of H.W. Byers High School and former Class 1A Mr. Basketball recently signed with Mississippi Valley State University.

“Being at Meridian was a great experience,” said James, who led the Eagles in scoring in 2024-2025. “Coming from a small school and making it to the next level was a great opportunity for me. I was able to improve my game.”

The guard came off the bench as a freshman for Meridian, and then stepped up to starter his sophomore year. He averaged 13.9 points, three assists and three rebounds per game last season.

He chose Mississippi Valley over the likes of Delta State, Mississippi College and Christian Brothers.

“They really showed me a lot of love at Mississippi Valley State, plus it's an opportunity for a small-school guy to play at the D-1 level,” James said. “I'm really looking forward to it.”

James helped lead the H.W. Byers Lions to the state championship game as a junior and the state semi-finals his senior season. James Sales was his head coach from eighth grade through his junior year and then Fred Stafford coached the squad when James was a senior.

“My coaches had a big impact on me,” James said. “And my family was also a tremendous influence. They pushed me a lot and helped mold me into the person I am now.”

Coach Sales said James is a great kid, who is dedicated, hard-working and loves basketball.

“He was always in the gym, working on his craft,” Sales said. “He did all the small things it takes to get in the position he is in now. I am not surprised at all that he has the opportunity to play at the D-1 level, and I believe he will do great things there (at Mississippi Valley State). I am so happy for him and his family.”

James is working out and enjoying his time at home, and he will head to Itta Bena later this summer.

“I want to do anything I can to help Mississippi Valley State win,” he said. “They've had their ups and downs there, and I want to be a part of change. I want to help turn things around.”