East Texas A&M University Athletics

Football • 1966-69

"KIng" Arthur James was the star running back for the Lions from 1966-1969 and is the program's all-time leader in rushing yards (4,285), rushing attempts (884), yards per game (112.8) and all-purpose yards (6,317). He also holds the school's season record for all-purpose yards (2,028 in 1969) and holds the record for most rushing yards in a single game (323 vs. Abilene Christian, 9/21/1968). His No. 30 jersey was retired in 1969 and is still the only retired jersey in A&M-Commerce history.

During his career, James was a five-time All-America selection, including a two-time NAIA First Team All-America selection. He was named the 1968 Lone Star Conference Outstanding Back of the Year and was a three-time First Team All-LSC selection. James led the LSC in rushing yards in 1967, 1968 and 1969. He rushed for more than 200 yards in five different games. He finished his collegiate career as the all-time leading rusher in LSC history.

When he first arrived at ETSU, the 5-foot-9-inch 170 pound back was feared to be too small to withstand the punishment. However, James proved everyone wrong and became one of the most beloved players in ETSU sports history. In fact, when he was announced as an All-American at an ETSU basketball game halftime ceremony, he received a five-minute standing ovation. 

He was elected into the Lion Athletic Hall of Fame in 1979 and was named to the 75th Anniversary All-LSC team. He was inducted into the Lone Star Conference Hall of Honor in 2008.