Former NBA basketball player serving in Iraq

Specialist Tim James can say that he is one of the few soldiers who were actually drafted. In 1999, James was the 25th overall pick in the NBA draft. Following a career in the U.S. and European leagues, James joined the Army, and now serves in Iraq.

But according to The New York Times, he carries an “M-15 rifle.” Hadn’t heard of that one before.

James, who earned more than $2 million playing in the N.B.A., is making less than $2,000 a month. His commander, Capt. Curtis Byron, said he was unaware that the 6-foot-7 soldier in his unit was a former professional basketball player until James sought permission to be interviewed for news articles.

“Spc. James has always been very respectful and professional since being in the unit,” Captain Byron wrote in an e-mail message. “His job is not always the most glamorous, but he completes his missions in a timely manner and gets the job done.” He added, “He seems to be a fairly humble guy and takes it all in stride.”

To the best of my knowledge, James is the first athlete to join the service since brothers Pat and Kevin Tillman fought with the 2nd Raider Battalion.