James Bell Shines in Dominant Victory for Simeon
Senior running back James Bell experiences a sense of fulfillment when he’s in possession of the football for Simeon. During games, he remains focused solely on the present and strives to make a significant impact for the Wolverines. In his own words, Bell said, “I was born to do this. I’ve been doing it ever since I was a kid. My running style tells you everything about the kind of player I am — aggressive, powerful, and strong.”
Bell showcased his talents with a remarkable performance on Saturday afternoon, affectionately known as “Baby James,” rushing for 215 yards and scoring five touchdowns on just 11 carries in Simeon’s 60-0 victory over Phillips at Eckersall Stadium in Chicago. Bell’s touchdowns all covered at least 30 yards, and he sat out the second half. Sophomore receiver Jalonny Billingsley contributed with a 42-yard touchdown on a punt return and a 36-yard touchdown from a pass by sophomore quarterback Aki King, aiding Simeon to regain its winning form.
Beyond his running skills, Boston College-bound senior lineman Corey Randolph highlighted Bell’s influential presence on the team. “His voice has weight about it,” Randolph commented. “When he says something, it means something. He’s a dominant player on our team. He has great field vision and sees everything.”
Billingsley described Bell as a chameleon, serious on the field and fun-loving off it. “He’s a funny guy,” Billingsley observed. “When the game is on, he gets his work done. He has great footwork and knows how to bounce plays outside. He’s a true leader.”
Bell is ranked among the state’s top prospects for the 2027 recruiting class, accompanied by Randolph and defensive end Brian DeMoss, according to 247 Sports. Bell has received 16 Division I offers, including those from Indiana, Miami, Missouri, Kansas, and Arizona State.
James Bell’s father, also named James, was a notable running back at Harper in the 1990s under coach Terry Lewis. Bell acknowledges his father’s influence, saying, “My dad has been my coach for as long as I’ve been playing. He was my first coach, my trainer, and my mentor. He inspired me to do this and is the reason why I am this way.”
Initially, Bell started his career at rival Morgan Park and did not play during his freshman year due to a broken collarbone. “The move was tough and coming over here was a big change, but I just thought this was a better place for me,” Bell explained.
As a sophomore, Bell demonstrated remarkable potential and enthusiasm when carrying the ball. “He’s always played above his age since he arrived here,” Simeon coach Sinque Turner stated. “He’s hard to take down, and he has great contact and balance.”
Standing at 5-foot-10 and weighing 200 pounds, Bell possesses the physical stature to excel in multiple roles. His commitment to improving his skills extends beyond the football field; he has engaged in boxing and wrestling to enhance his balance, footwork, and control.
Off the field, Bell has interests that define his personality. “My father’s from the South, and one thing we really love doing together is going fishing,” he said. Additionally, Bell has been an avid chess player since grade school: “I really like how chess makes you think,” he said. “I’m two different people. I’m quiet and keep to myself, but if I know you, I’m pretty outgoing and talkative.”
Turner sees great potential in Bell, heralding his future contributions to the team. “He had junior tape as a sophomore and last year he really broke out,” Turner mentioned. “Baby James is everything as advertised. He’s just a breath of fresh air.”
Bell aims to develop into a versatile player by improving his capabilities as a receiver and blocker. “I feel like I’ve added more to my game this season,” he noted. “I know I can do anything.”
Reporter Patrick Z. McGavin provided insight into Bell’s inspiring performance and character.