Edgerrin James Says Son Jizzle Has Substance Abuse Issues Amid Bizarre Cincinnati Saga

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Jan 24, 2026; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Cincinnati Bearcats guard Jizzle James (2) against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Desert Financial Arena.

Former Cincinnati Bearcats and Charlotte 49ers point guard Jizzle James needs our help, not our ridicule, according to his father, Hall of Fame running back Edgerrin James.

The former Indianapolis Colts star revealed Monday that his son was dealing with substance abuse issues amid a strange incident that resulted in the Bearcats issuing him a cease-and-desist letter.

“Jizzle is dealing with substance abuse and is NOT in the right state of mind right now,” the elder James posted on social media. “If you see him, show him LOVE – but DO NOT give him money, valuables, or anything material.

“You’re not helping him by feeding the problem. He wants/needs for NOTHING…

“Give him a hug, give him encouragement, give him love. THAT’S IT..

“Be patient with him. We’re fighting for him, not against him.”

James, a former four-star recruit out of high school, began his career with the Bearcats before transferring to Charlotte in April, following Cincinnati coach Wes Miller, who had been fired.

He recently made several social media posts insinuating that he had returned to his previous program. However, that is not the case. In fact, representatives from Cincinnati reached out to James over the weekend and informed him that he’s no longer allowed to “use, represent, or commercially promote the University of Cincinnati.”

So James is not returning to Cincinnati. Charlotte recently confirmed that he is no longer on its roster. And now his legendary father says that he’s dealing with substance abuse issues.

Here’s hoping that somebody can get through to the former star basketball player, because the situation has officially shifted from being strange and perhaps a bit humorous to just plain sad.