Isiah Jones expands his game, boosts Rolesville’s aspirations

The newspaper industry provided me a four-decade career experiencing inspiration, dedication and just plain fun. The start of my career covering the Chargers, college, high school sports and Olympic athletes came full circle with Don Coryell’s Pro Football Hall of Fame induction on August 5 in Canton, Ohio. I helped Hall of Famer Dan Fouts with research on Coryell’s remarkable record of first-time Pro Bowlers with the SAN DIEGO Chargers and Cardinal for Fouts’ presentation to the voters. So, despite…

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My N&O story: Xavier Pugh emerges from shadows in the playoffs

PHOTO: Millbrook running back Xavier Pugh. By TOM SHANAHAN Millbrook High’s running game needed something extra last week. The Wildcats, known for their explosive passing attack, faced top-seeded Hillside’s balanced offense in an East Region semifinal of the N.C. High School Athletic Association 4A playoffs. Xavier Pugh, Millbrook’s overshadowed running back, delivered — three times. The senior’s third rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter was the game-winner in a 19-14 victory. “Every game he got better and better…

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My N&O story: Williams’ specialty is the season he’s playing

PHOTO: Hillside football and baseball star Jimmyll Williams. Visit my website homepage, TomShanahan.Report By TOM SHANAHAN DURHAM -- Jimmyll Williams shuddered at the thought. Hillside High’s multi-sport athlete sat for an interview at the head of a long table in a school conference room as the N.C. High School Athletic Association 4A playoffs continue. His top-seeded Hornets (13-0) face No. 12 seed Millbrook (12-1) at 7:30 p.m. Friday on the Hornets’ field, with the winner advancing to the…

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