Rita James signs with the University of Central Arkansas

By Luke Fay, Athletics Communications | luke.fay@tcc.fl.edu 

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (May 1, 2021) – Tallahassee Community College women's basketball standout Rita James has signed a national letter of intent with the University of Central Arkansas. 

James explained why she felt committing to the Sugar Bears was the right decision. 

"I spoke to the coaches and some of the players and they are really nice. I feel as a coach she (Sandra Rushing) can take me to where I need to be, as far as improving my game," James said. "I love the family and the faith they have in me." 

Tallahassee head women's basketball coach Matt Huddleston was elated with Rita taking the next step in her career. 

"We are all very excited about Rita's choice," Huddleston said. "We had a long conversation with the coach late last week just before the decision was made, and I think what they were looking for and what Rita was looking for was about fit." 

Huddleston believes it was the right place, right time for James to realize her Division 1 dreams. 

"Rita has found a place, she is going to fit their culture and their program," Huddleston added. "We are very excited because Rita has been a big piece of what we have been doing here the last two years. We want to celebrate her, and we will be following her success." 

James, who hails from Nigeria, was a two-year contributor for the Eagles. She started 14 games her freshman year in Tallahassee, averaging 7.6 points and 4.4 rebounds in 26 games.

James was versatile in the lineup for the Eagles in year two. The sophomore came off the bench for the Eagles eight times, while starting nine games in the Covid-19 shortened season. James averaged 6.2 points and 3.8 rebounds in 17 games.  

James' highlight of the year came in the waning moments of a 48-45 victory over Pensacola State College on February 27. The sophomore guard snatched a pass in the final seconds and ultimately knocked down two free throws with 4.8 seconds remaining to secure the Panhandle Conference victory. 

James went on to score 16 points, tying a career-high, in an 84-73 road loss to Gulf Coast State College on March 20. 

In 2020, James was named to the NJCAA All-Academic Second-Team. This season, she was a second-team All-Panhandle Conference selection. 

Central Arkansas, which is located in Conway, Ark., posted a record of 13-14 during the 2021 season, its last as a member of the Southland Conference. Effective July 1, the Sugar Bears will join the Atlantic Sun Conference.