COACH James Nervins BIOGRAPHY
James Nervins was born in Houston, Texas, and has dedicated over two decades to developing student-athletes through education and basketball. A proud graduate of Madisonville High School, James earned All-District honors during his senior year, setting the stage for a lifelong journey in athletics and leadership.
He holds a B.A. in Psychology from Texas Southern University (2004) and an M.A. in Educational Administration from Prairie View A&M University (2008). Combining his academic foundation with his passion for sports, James has served as a coach and mentor for 21 years, impacting both middle and high school athletes across school programs and the AAU circuit.
James began his coaching career in 2004 with the City of Dallas, quickly progressing to The Oakridge School in Arlington, TX, where he served as a 7th grade coach and varsity assistant. His journey then led him back to Houston, and later to Phoenix, Arizona, where he spent eight impactful years coaching high school and AAU girls teams. Highlights include leading La Joya High School’s freshman team to a 14-4 record and district title, and guiding Mountain Pointe High School to a district playoff appearance and a Bi-District championship.
In 2016, James returned to Texas to support his ailing mother, a deeply meaningful period that strengthened his family ties. Since then, he has continued his coaching mission at prominent Texas programs such as Guyer High School, Irving MacArthur, and Denton High School. His efforts have contributed to the development of numerous collegiate athletes including Lauren Heard (TCU), Sarah Andrews (Baylor), Jordyn Newsome (East Texas A&M), Morgan Browning (Morehead State/Arkansas-Ft. Smith), and Natalie Greenwood (University of St. Thomas/Trinity University).
Coach Nervins sees sports as a ministry, a way to positively shape lives through structure, mentorship, and faith. He is an active member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), using basketball as a vehicle for character development and personal growth.
Off the court, James cherishes time with his wife, LaTrice, and their four children—Tyra (28), Jayden (22), Derynn (16), and Zoë (15). His holistic approach to coaching reflects a lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and faith-based impact.