By playing Hamilton's brand of basketball--tenacious defense and all-out energy and hustle--and by improving each season, James has led the Hurricanes to a remarkable swing in his four years.

Before his arrival, the Hurricanes were a combined 17-55 in league play through its first four years in the Big East. Since then, however, Miami has gone 44-30 in conference games, including four consecutive winning seasons.

And this season has marked the culmination of many years of hard work. With a record of 22-6 (15-3 Big East), victories over UConn, St. John's (twice) and Syracuse and a No. 2 seed in the NCAA Tournament, Miami has had its most successful season in its history.

This young team has surprised all, rising into the top ten of both polls, by using a stifling defense that allows opponents less than 40 percent shooting from the field.

And at long last, the Hurricanes are receiving the respect they deserve.

Hamilton was recently named Big East Coach of the Year for the second time.

Additionally, the Hurricanes were the only team to have two starters on the First Team All-Big East Team, with James and junior guard Johnny Hemsley earning the honors. James also earned co-Big East Player of the Year honors with perhaps the best player in the nation, UConn's Richard Hamilton. Hemsley was named the conference's Comeback Player of the Year.