James Mays II Retires After 34 Years with Dallas ISD, Leaving Golden Legacy at South Oak Cliff

After 34 years of service with Dallas ISD—32 of them at South Oak Cliff High School—legendary coach and athletic director James Mays II is retiring, closing a chapter defined by championship excellence and deep community impact. Mays led SOC to four straight UIL boys’ basketball state titles (2005–2009) and played a pivotal role in the school’s historic back-to-back 5A Division II football championships in 2021 and 2022. Over 26 years as head basketball coach and 13 as athletic director, Mays shaped generations of student-athletes and built a program that brought pride to Dallas ISD and the Oak Cliff community. As he steps into retirement, Mays leaves behind a legacy of resilience, leadership, and championship culture. The Golden Bears salute a true icon.