James Joseph Paxson Jr. (born July 9, 1957) is an American former professional basketball player.

[1] Paxson was a three-time team MVP and earned All-America honors as a senior after averaging more than 23 points per game.

When he was traded from Portland, he left as the team's all-time leading scorer.

After retiring in 1990 at the age of 32, Paxson joined Portland's front office as assistant general manager.

In September 1998, he was named vice president of basketball operations for the Cleveland Cavaliers.