He was known as the Destroyer for his gritty intensity as a player. He later coached Golden State to an N.B.A. championship and served as its general manager.
James is the sport's global ambassador, and at the Olympics, he is playing in front of -- and against -- people who grew up dreaming of seeing him in person.
He helped City College win two national championships in 1950 before pleading guilty in a point-shaving scheme. He later became City's basketball coach and a mentor.