1989-1990 Season Around the mid of 1989, James went to play pro. and survived the qualified school of 1989 Asian Open held in Thailand. James defeated well known players such as Mike Hallet, Doug Mountjoy, Silvino Francisco, and Terry Griffiths to reach the final round which he must to beat Stephen Hendry to win the title. James who had been hot in the previous rounds was slow started. After letting Hendry lead 4-0 and 5-1, James fought back but could not resist Hendry's hot form, resulting in his loss 6-9.

Also, James almost got through the final of 1989 Rothmanth Granprix, but he lost to Dean Raynolds 8-9 in the semifinalist.