James, who is being retained from former head coach Carolyn Jenkins’ staff, spent the past two seasons as an assistant with the Hornets. She will continue to serve as the team’s recruiting coordinator while also working with the post players, according to Muscatell.

“When I was initially looking at this job, Cynthia James was a big factor in my belief that we could get this program winning again,” Muscatell said. “Her coaching background is impressive and she has done an outstanding job everywhere she has been.

“Cynthia is from the Sacramento area and is a proven recruiter. In addition, she brings a wealth of experience and has an exceptional work ethic.”

James joined the Hornet coaching staff in 2001-02 after spending the 2000-01 season as an assistant at Gonzaga under head coach Kelly Graves. Prior to that, the Citrus Heights, Calif., native coached three years at Saint Mary’s (1997-2000).

James played four years at both the point and shooting guard positions at Pepperdine University (1993-97). A 1993 graduate of Sacramento’s Del Campo High School, James became the third player in the school’s history to break the 1,000-point scoring barrier.

Muscatell expects to complete the remainder of his staff in early June.