April 27, 2015
For his athletic and academic prowess together with outstanding leadership in the local community, sophomore guard Jalen James has been named a 2015 Arthur Ashe, Jr. Sports Scholar by Diverse: Issues in Higher Education.
The publication's annual awards program recognizes undergraduate student-athletes of color who personify Mr. Ashe's (1943-1993) ideals of scholarship, athletics achievement and humanitarianism. Selected student-athletes have at least a 3.20 cumulative grade-point average and are active in community service activities.
"Since Jalen arrived at San Jose State, he has exemplified what it means to be an Arthur Ashe, Jr. Sports Scholar," said San José State head coach, Dave Wojcik. "Jalen has displayed great leadership qualities on the court, in the classroom, and in the community. The impact that he has made on the city of San Jose and our university is immeasurable. It is refreshing to coach a person like Jalen James, as he sets a terrific example for his teammates and future Spartans."
James was San José State's assist leader during the 2013-14 season. He continued giving to others off the court, leading a service effort that impacted the school's and the city's community. Mentoring youth athletes with health tips in Play Nice day camps, planting and harvesting at San Jose's "Veggielution" event and lending a hand on campus move-in days are just a few activities Jalen has participated in.
The graduate of La Lumiere School in Chicago, Ill., carried a 3.29 cumulative GPA while starting 29 games at point guard for the Spartans in 2013-14. Entering into his third year at SJSU, James plans to major in sociology.
Jalen is one of 30 men's basketball players nationally and the only Mountain West player to be named an Arthur Ashe, Jr. Sports Scholar. His award helped San José State University to a total of 13 honorees, which represents the most for any NCAA Division I, II or III institution based in the Pacific Time Zone.