Cal Poly Basketball in Review – Iziah James

Iziah James – Freshman – 6’0″, 180 lbs

Iziah James could have a few clear paths to improvement and more playing time in 2018-19. By Owen Main

By the Numbers:

26 Games

9.8 Minutes per game

2.2 Points per game

0.8 Rebounds per game

0.7 Assists per game

33.3% Field Goals

36.4% Three Point Field Goals

87.5% Free Throws

In his freshman season, James didn’t see much of the floor. While he appeared in 26 games, he averaged only 9.8 minutes per game. At times, the speed of the game looked quick for him — something that’s not abnormal for some freshmen. James tried to play physical defense. I thought before the season that his physicality reminded me a little of Maliik Love, though James isn’t as quick or physically developed as Love, who was the Big West’s freshman of the year, was at that age. 

James’ shot is more of a set-shot than a jumper and looks a little different, but he shot it at a 36 percent clip that was fourth on the team. James got more playing time during Big West play as his freshman year wore on. 

Looking forward

Point guard Donovan Fields figures to dominate the ball once again in 2018, and with good reason. To get Fields more open looks, Cal Poly might be well-served to have other ball-handlers on the floor. Incoming freshman Junior Ballard figures to get lots of guard/wing minutes, but having James and Fields on the floor at the same time is an option. If James can bring his three-point and field goal shooting percentage closer to 40%, this will open things up a lot more for more playing time. 

As with other players trying to get off the end of the bench, improvements are likely in store for James. His ball security, physical development, decision-making, and consistent shooting are all things that he can improve on, as can all young point guards. If he really wants to make himself indispensable, getting really focused on his own physicality and defense can really be a difference maker. This is a team that needs more physical defensive players and a defensive stopper is a great role for a young player to develop. 

*Ed note: Over the next few weeks, we’ll be recapping the season of every Cal Poly player who played in 2017-18.