"One of our beloved coaches, Mr. James Wright, has passed. Under the leadership of Head Coach Willie Hayes, Coach Wright served as an Assistant Men's Basketball Coach for the Alabama A&M University Bulldogs and was an integral part of the program. 

"Circumstances surrounding his death are unknown at this time. The University asks that you keep the family of Mr. Wright, as well as his fellow coaches and the men's basketball team in your prayers. Grief counselors have been made available to the players and staff."

Wright came to Huntsville from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff . He is a graduate of Jackson State in 1993. He was coach, president and general manager of the AAU basketball team "Rise & Shine" from 1993 to 2004.

85 percent of his players from that team went on to play Division I or II, including NBA players Mo Williams and Justin Reed.

"We've lost a great coach, a great man and a great person," said A&M Head Coach Willie Hayes. "I've known him since high school. I've lost a great friend."

Hayes and Athletic Director Bryan Hicks met with the team Wednesday evening.

"We ask that you pray for Coach Wright's family and keep them in your thoughts," Hicks said.

This was Wrights fourth year with the Bulldogs.

The D.J's Music Site HBCU Campaign team sends our deepest condolences and prayers to Wright's family, the AAMU men's basketball team and the entire AAMU Bulldog family.