OBP52: Brian James talks Michael Jordan, NU in NCAAs and the heart of Taylorville

Few people can say they’ve lived nearly half a century in the game of basketball. Coach Brian James has. With 49 years of coaching experience, James has seen the sport from every angle — from small-town roots in Taylorville, Illinois, to the biggest stages in the NBA and college basketball.In this episode, BJ takes us inside some of the defining moments of his journey: what it was like to go from high school to the NBA, to work alongside Doug Collins, to coach and manage the competitive fire of Michael Jordan, and to help Chris Collins lead Northwestern to its first-ever NCAA Tournament appearances. James also reflects on the enduring role basketball plays in Taylorville and the life lessons the game continues to teach.Whether you’re a lifelong hoops fan or just curious about the stories behind the sidelines, this conversation offers a rare window into the relationships, challenges, and triumphs that define a true coaching career.