BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The University of Arkansas Pine Bluff Head Coach Carlos James was tagged Coach of the Year after leading UAPB to 21-30 record including a 13-11 mark in conference play. The Golden Lions finished home play at the Torii Hunter Baseball Complex with a 12-9 record. The Golden Lions pitching staff combined for an earned run average of 4.20 which ranks first in the conference. Three were named to a conference leading SWAC Pitchers of the Week this year.

UAPB also led the SWAC in assists (575) and combined batting average with two outs (.237). To spotlight the season, UAPB defeated TCU, 6-4, before closing out the year with a two-game sweep over Prairie View A&M. With the wins, the Golden Lions jumped to second place in the final western division standings. The Golden Lions were selected to finish fifth in the preseason poll after ending its 2012 campaign 8-38 (6-18 SWAC).

“This is an award that's a “we” award. You have to be able to surround yourself with good, competent people that can take the vision that you have and make that vision come true. That award belongs to Coach Mac, Coach Tatum, the players and everyone that's involved in the program of UAPB baseball. It just so happens to have my name on the front of it”, said head coach Carlos James.

“Being named Coach of the Year is a program award, and what you do is take it for what it is. My peers who voted for me have recognized that Arkansas-Pine Bluff has made strides to make the conference better and that's what it's all about.”