James’ breakout season came in 2016, where she set the single-season program records for batting average (.495), hits (92), and stolen bases (43). In addition to setting program records, James finished the year ranked fifth in the NAIA in hits and hits per game (1.769), sixth in stolen bases, and seventh in batting average. On the season, the sophomore notched 32 multi-hit games and stole multiple bases in a game nine times. James was just as dominant in conference games tallying a conference-leading 50 hits and 21 stolen bases, while her .472 average ranked second in the MSC. The sophomore opened the season recording four three-hit games out of UC’s first 12 games of the season. James’s strong start continued into conference play as she went 11-15 with 8 runs scored, 3 RBI, and a stolen base in the Patriots conference-opening series against St. Catharine. On the base path, James showcased her blazing speed converted her first 19 stolen bases, including swiping four bags against Midway. Later that year, James ran herself into the record book as she recorded her 33rd stolen base of the season, breaking Shannon Evans previews mark of 32, on April 12, to become the single-season record holder. At the MSC Tournament two weeks later, James etched her name in the record book once again as she went 2-3 against Lindsey Wilson for her 88th and 89th hit of the season, which broke the previous record of 87 set back in 1996. For her performance on the season, James was named an MSC First Team All-Conference selection. In addition to those accolades, James was named an NFCA First Team All-American and a member of the Midwest All-Region Team.