Last Updated on May 29, 2026 by Mat Diekhake
James Silas was one of the steady scoring forces behind the early success of the Spurs franchise, earning a reputation for his smooth jump shot and calm play under pressure. Long before San Antonio became a championship destination, Silas helped give the team an identity and remains one of the most respected players from its formative years.
Here’s a detailed profile of basketballer James Silas:
Player Profile
- Full Name: James Edward Silas
- Nationality: American
- Date of Birth: February 11, 1949
- Hometown: Tallulah, Louisiana, USA
- Height: 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm)
- Weight: 180 pounds (81 kg)
- Wingspan: 6 feet 4 inches (193cm)
- Shoe Size: Size 11 (US)
- Jersey Number: 13
- Position: Point Guard / Shooting Guard
- High School: McCall High School, Tallulah, Louisiana
- College: Stephen F. Austin State University
- NBA Draft: 1972, 5th round, 70th overall pick by the Houston Rockets
- Professional Teams:
- Dallas Chaparrals (ABA) (1972–1973)
- San Antonio Spurs (ABA/NBA) (1973–1981)
- Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA) (1981–1982)
- Championship Rings: None
- Children: Son, Xavier Silas
- Siblings: Information not publicly available
Player Archetype / Play Style
James Silas was a scoring lead guard whose archetype leaned toward the clutch shot-maker rather than the pure setup specialist, blending point-guard responsibilities with the instincts of a polished scorer. Defensively, he handled backcourt assignments and competed on the perimeter, though his greatest value came from his control and poise with the ball rather than from shutdown defense. Offensively, he served as a primary creator and late-game scoring threat, capable of running the team while also carrying stretches with his jumper and pull-up game. At about 6-foot-1 and 185 pounds, Silas relied less on imposing size and more on quickness, balance, touch, and backcourt craft. The overall style was smooth, composed, and big-moment ready: a smart guard who could organize an offense, rise into tough jumpers, and close games with the kind of calm that made “Captain Late” a fitting nickname. (San Antonio Sports)
Sources: James Silas — San Antonio Sports Hall of Fame; 40-year anniversary of Spurs’ first NBA division title — San Antonio Express-News; 10 Greatest ABA Teams of All Time — Legends of Sport; James “Captain Late” Silas Commanded Respect in the Clutch — 20 Second Timeout