The Duke product set the tone immediately in Charlotte's season opener against Brooklyn on October 22, 2025, swatting away a shot attempt before corralling the loose ball to ignite the fast break. Selected 33rd overall after earning ACC All-Defense honors, James announced his arrival with a two-handed baseline flush off an offensive rebound for his first NBA points. The 6'5" wing from Tulane and Duke continued to impact the game with a drive-and-kick assist to Tidjane Salaun for a deep three, finishing the victory with the two-way versatility that made Charlotte believe they found a steal in the second round. The Georgia native spent four years at Tulane before transferring to Duke for his final season, where he averaged 8.6 points and 4.2 rebounds while shooting 41% from three alongside Cooper Flagg and fellow Hornet Kon Knueppel. His physically imposing defensive style and unselfish offensive instincts signal the kind of winning impact that James brings to the league. · Oct 22, 2025