The point guard for Northland had a great senior season for the Vikings as they fell just short in a district final in Division II. While his perimeter shot wasn’t falling today, James made excellent decisions as a passer, as his team moved the ball better than most groups I saw today. I also liked his willingness to pick up full-court and pressure opposing ball handlers, forcing a couple turnovers.

I caught Northland’s first game of the morning where they showed off their depth, size and athleticism. Those pieces are all made better by the play of James from the point guard position as he helps set the table and makes plays for his teammates. The highlight of the day came when James threw a lob off the glass that was thrown down by a trailing teammate that gave his team a huge boost of momentum. James also got going as a scorer with a couple of buckets in the paint with layup finishes using either hand and floaters. Northland once again has the talent to remain at the top of the Columbus City League.

Run As One had an impressive weekend as their defensive pressure gave teams a lot of trouble as they turned opponents over and quickly turned defense to offense. Another undersized guard who was productive this weekend, James was attacking off the dribble and using his quickness to get into the lane where he scored at the rim with scoop layup finishes. Also a rhythm shot maker, James hit a couple shots off the bounce. Run As One has some impressive Columbus City League talent with Rohaun Hardy Rohaun Hardy 6'5" | SF Africentric | 2026 State OH and Manny Towns Manny Towns 6'0" | SG Linden-McKinley | 2026 OH also impressing this weekend.

James was so impactful for the Vikings in their 3rd straight City League Championship. He was at the top of the half-court press and caused havoc. He stole the ball or tipped the ball on a wing entry pass. He showed great anticipation and quickness in passing lanes all game. He had complete control of the game being the head of the zone. On the offensive end, he ran the offense very efficiently. He always made the right decisions with the ball in his hands. He scored really efficiently and didn’t force wasn’t there. Really impressive game from James.

James was an effective slasher for Northland that has no fear. He is a shorter guard, but he finished at the rim greatly. He is an explosive athlete who has a great first step that can get by anyone. This allowed him to get downhill and show off his good touch in the lane. He has a tight handle on the ball and is a creative player.

James is ultra-quick. He has a different type of quickness that makes most not able to stay in front of him. He is a great transition player as he can blow by everyone. He is a tough kid who had some good acrobatic finishes. He showed good toughness today as well. 

The younger brother of Doogie James who had a breakout season at Gannon last season and was one of the top point guards in central Ohio for his class, Diante has some similar qualities. A small point guard who can set the table for his teammates, James impressed me at Midwest Live with a Northland squad that has a lot of perimeter talent. James is also capable of hitting shots from the outside either off the dribble or spotting up. Northland has been at the top of the Columbus City League the past two years and will look to defend their crown once again with James playing a key role.