James Bailey graduated from Villa Rica High School in 1989. He was a member of the 1986 State Championship Football Team, and he currently holds records in the most points and most rebounds in his basketball career at Villa Rica High School; which led to the retirement of his #33 basketball jersey.

Upon completion of high school, James accepted a full basketball scholarship to University of Mississippi, where he graduated in 1994 with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration. While at Ole Miss James Bailey had the privilege to play football (1992-94) as well as basketball (1989-92) at Ole Miss.

Coach James Bailey started his coaching career with Carroll County Schools as a community coach at Villa Rica Middle School for the 2007 and 2008 basketball/football seasons. He became employed as an ISS teacher at Villa Rica High during the 2009-2010 school year where he has been an assistant boy’s basketball and football coach since that time. 

Coach Bailey became the Head Coach of the VRHS Lady Wildcats for the 2011-13 seasons. He led the team to a (20-9 record) 5-AAAAA Region Runner-up title and a GHSA Sweet 16 appearance in his first year as a Head Coach. He was named Coach of the Year 2013. 

Coach Bailey coached at New Manchester High for 8 years 2013-2021. He won a Region title and Elite 8 appearance in the GHSA state tournament. He was also named Coach of the Year 2021. 

Coach Bailey is a current PE teacher, but he is also certified as a Business Education teacher. 

James and his wife Kim reside in Douglasville and have three children, Amber, Orlandis, and Kennedy and six grandchildren.