In the 2010 NBA draft, Damai James was selected by the Atlanta Hawks with the 24th overall pick in the first round, but the Hawks soon traded him to the New Jersey Nets and received 27 from the Nets. No. 31 and pick No. 31.

On July 16, 2010, the Nets officially signed Damai James. It is reported that the total contract price is US$6.05 million over four years, including US$1.16 million for the 2010-11 season, US$1.24 million for the 2011-12 season, and a team option in the summer of 2012.

Due to foot injuries, Damai James has only played 32 games in two seasons since joining the Nets, averaging 17.9 minutes per game, 4.5 points and 3.7 rebounds. . After the 2011-12 season, the Nets did not exercise the team option in the contract.

On September 12, 2012, the Atlanta Hawks signed a one-year contract with Damai James.

On October 28, 2012, the Hawks terminated the contract with Damai James.

On January 13, 2013, the Brooklyn Nets signed a 10-day contract with forward Damai James.

On September 13, 2013, the Denver Nuggets signed a non-guaranteed contract with Damai James; on October 27, the Nuggets terminated the contract with Damai James.

On April 3, 2014, the San Antonio Spurs officially announced that the team officially signed Damai James on a 10-day contract, and he will wear the No. 7 jersey.

On April 14, 2014, the Spurs announced that they had signed forward Damai James until the end of the season.

On June 16, 2014, after falling behind by 16 points at the start, the Spurs relied on their excellent bench depth to stage a strong comeback. They defeated the Heat 104-87 at home and eliminated the Heat 4-1 in the finals. Won the championship and won the fifth championship trophy in 16 years.

On September 19, 2014, the Washington Wizards signed Damai James.

On October 26, 2014, the Wizards announced that they would waive Damai James.