James spent twenty-four years as a professional, both beginning and ending his career with different versions of the Seattle Sounders.

While born in England, James grew up along with his brothers: Greg, Joe, Chris, and David and sister Tara, in Washington state.

Rather than attending college, James chose to sign with the Seattle Sounders of the North American Soccer League (NASL) after graduating from high school.

The Drillers folded at the end of the 1982 outdoor season and James jumped to Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL).

However, James and his teammates were unable to compete when President Jimmy Carter boycotted the games following the Soviet Union's invasion of Afghanistan.

In 1997, James was hired by Roosevelt High School in Seattle, Washington to coach its girls' soccer team.

[1] In the summer of 2023, KNKX reported allegations of an "abusive culture" among coaches at Crossfire Premier, including James.

Alleged behavior by coaches included racist comments and sexual harassment towards players and staff.

On July 20, 2024, KNKX reported that U.S. Soccer confirmed the coaching license suspension of Bernie James.