A Whiteville native who went on to play for 12 seasons in the NFL is set to be posthumously inducted into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame next spring.
Chester McGlockton and 10 others will join more than 400 sports icons who’ve been welcomed into the hall of fame since 1963, according to an NCSHOF press release.
McGlockton’s football career.
While playing football at Whiteville High School, McGlockton was named a second-team All-American by USA Today, the release said. As a senior, McGlockton was a key part of the team that led Whiteville High School to the 1987 N.C. 2A Football Championship with a 15–0 record. His nine interceptions returned for touchdowns are still the NCHSAA career record.
McGlockton joined Clemson University in 1988 and played three seasons with the Tigers. McGlockton was a first-team All-ACC selection in 1991, the release said.
McGlockton played for four teams during his 12-season professional football career with the NFL, beginning in 1992 when the Los Angeles Raiders chose him as a first-round draft pick. While with the Raiders, he appeared in four straight Pro Bowls and was a first-team All-Pro selection in 1995.
McGlockton would later play for the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs before finishing his NFL career in 2003 with the New York Jets.
Over 179 games with the NFL, McGlockton recorded 555 tackles, 51 sacks, 14 forced fumbles and four interceptions, according to the release.
McGlockton died in 2011 at the age of 42 at his home in California. At the time, he was in his second season as a defensive assistant coach for the Stanford University Cardinal football team.
Induction ceremony
Other inductees joining McGlockton in the state hall of fame in May include Cullen Jones, a swimmer and four-time Olympic medalist; Wendy Palmer, a Women's NBA All-Star; and Bobby Isaac, who was named one of NASCAR's 50 Greatest Drivers.
“The Class of 2025 of the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame is wonderfully diverse, just like the sports landscape of this great state,” said Rick Webb, president of the hall’s board of directors. “Trailblazers, icons and luminaries, from the high school ranks to the professional circuits — there is so much history encapsulated within these 11 inductees, all of whom contributed to the sports culture of North Carolina.”
McGlockton was previously inducted into the Greater Wilmington Sports Hall of Fame and the Tri-County Sports Hall of Fame in 2009.
McGlockton and the other inductees will be recognized at the NCSHOF 61st annual induction celebration, to be held at the Sheraton Greensboro in the Joseph S. Koury Convention Center. The celebration will be held May 2, 2025.
Tickets are now on sale for the ceremony. Go to ncshof.org for more information.
Copyright 2024 The News Reporter. All rights reserved.
Chester Morris McGlockton
(1969-2011)
Derek T. Brunson, born January 4, 1984, in Wilmington, North Carolina, is a nationally recognized professional mixed martial artist, accomplished collegiate wrestler, businessman, and proud descendant of William Graham, Sr. and Sarah Jacobs-Graham. Through his family lineage, Brunson is their 5th great-grandson, representing another generation of the Graham family whose descendants have distinguished themselves in athletics, education, public service, business, and numerous other professions.
Raised in Wilmington, Brunson attended John T. Hoggard High School, where his remarkable athletic ability became evident. Although he did not begin wrestling until his senior year, he quickly developed into an outstanding competitor. He also participated in football, track and field, and competitive cheerleading. His athletic versatility helped prepare him for what would eventually become an exceptional career in combat sports.
Brunson continued his education at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNC Pembroke), where he became one of the university's standout wrestlers. He compiled 121 career victories, won three NCAA regional wrestling championships, made four appearances at the NCAA Division II National Championships, and became a three-time NCAA Division II All-American. He graduated from UNC Pembroke with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice.
After college, Brunson worked as an in-home therapist and case worker before beginning his professional mixed martial arts career in 2010. His combination of elite wrestling, athleticism, strength, and striking ability quickly established him as a formidable middleweight competitor.
Brunson competed professionally for Strikeforce before reaching the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), where he spent more than a decade competing against many of the world's leading middleweights. During his UFC career, Brunson faced internationally recognized fighters including Anderson Silva, Israel Adesanya, Robert Whittaker, Lyoto Machida, Yoel Romero, Jared Cannonier, Darren Till, Kevin Holland, Ronaldo "Jacaré" Souza, and Dricus du Plessis. His UFC record included notable knockout, submission, and decision victories, and he became known especially for his wrestling ability and knockout power.
Among Brunson's memorable victories were wins over Lyoto Machida, Darren Till, Kevin Holland, Uriah Hall, Edmen Shahbazyan, Ian Heinisch, Elias Theodorou, Sam Alvey, and Chris Leben. His UFC statistics credit him with 12 knockout victories and four submission victories during the career record reflected on the organization's fighter profile.
Beyond professional competition, Brunson has maintained strong ties to his hometown and has worked to pass his knowledge and experience on to younger athletes. He established Brunson's MMA & Fitness in Wilmington, creating an environment where children and adults could learn martial arts, wrestling, fitness, discipline, and the importance of making positive choices.
Derek Brunson's journey—from Wilmington's local athletic programs to becoming an NCAA All-American and competing on some of mixed martial arts' largest stages—stands as an impressive chapter in his family's history.
As the 5th great-grandson of William Graham, Sr. and Sarah Jacobs-Graham, Derek Brunson carries forward a family legacy with deep roots in southeastern North Carolina. His accomplishments in collegiate wrestling and professional mixed martial arts have brought recognition not only to Wilmington and North Carolina, but also to another generation of the descendants of William Graham, Sr. and Sarah Jacobs-Graham
Derek Brunson
Tamera “Ty” Young, born October 30, 1986, in Wilmington, North Carolina, is a former professional basketball player, collegiate All-American, coach, entrepreneur, and the 5th great-granddaughter of William Graham, Sr. and Sarah Jacobs-Graham. Her accomplishments on the basketball court have made her one of the most successful female athletes to emerge from Wilmington.
Young grew up in Wilmington and attended Emsley A. Laney High School, where she established herself as an outstanding student athlete. She became one of the school's greatest basketball players, earning Mideastern Conference Player of the Year honors in 2003 and 2004. She finished her Laney career with 1,518 points and 791 rebounds, and the school later retired her No. 11 jersey in recognition of her accomplishments.
Young continued her basketball career at James Madison University (JMU) in Harrisonburg, Virginia. During her four seasons from 2004 to 2008, she developed into one of the most accomplished players in JMU women's basketball history.
She completed her collegiate career with 2,121 points, 1,127 rebounds and 275 steals. As a senior, she averaged 20.4 points and 10.4 rebounds per game, was named CAA Player of the Year, and earned Associated Press Honorable Mention All-America recognition. She was also a three-time First-Team All-CAA selection.
Her outstanding collegiate career led to her selection by the Atlanta Dream with the eighth overall pick in the first round of the 2008 WNBA Draft. Young became the first James Madison University player to play in the WNBA.
Young went on to enjoy a lengthy professional career in the Women's National Basketball Association, playing for the Atlanta Dream, Chicago Sky and Las Vegas Aces. She appeared in 372 WNBA regular-season games and averaged 7.1 points and 3.9 rebounds per game over her career. She was also a member of the Chicago Sky team that reached the 2014 WNBA Finals.
Her professional basketball career extended well beyond the United States. Young competed internationally in countries including Israel, China, Brazil, Turkey, France and Latvia, giving her a professional career that reached across the globe.
Young's accomplishments have also been recognized by the institutions and community that helped shape her. She was inducted into the James Madison University Athletics Hall of Fame in 2018. In 2026, she was selected for induction into the Greater Wilmington Sports Hall of Fame, further cementing her place among the Cape Fear region's distinguished athletes.
After her playing career, Young continued contributing to basketball from the sidelines. In 2024, she served as an assistant coach with the Chicago Sky, bringing the knowledge and experience gained during her long professional career to another generation of players.
Tamera “Ty” Young's journey from the basketball courts of Wilmington to James Madison University and ultimately the WNBA represents an inspiring chapter in the history of the descendants of William Graham, Sr. and Sarah Jacobs-Graham.
As their 5th great-granddaughter, Young carries forward a family legacy deeply rooted in southeastern North Carolina. Her achievements as an elite athlete, professional basketball player and coach have earned her recognition locally, nationally and internationally, making Tamera “Ty” Young one of the distinguished descendants of the William Graham and Sarah Jacobs-Graham family.
Frenchi L. Mack II is a collegiate football player, accomplished student-athlete, and 5th great-grandson of William Graham, Sr. and Sarah Jacobs-Graham.
A native of Bowie, Maryland, Mack is the son of Frenchi and Tammy Perkins-Mack and has a sister, Kamora. His athletic development began well before college. He became a three-year starter in high school, earned four varsity letters, and also participated in lacrosse. Mack attended the nationally recognized IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, where he continued developing as a football player.
Mack took his athletic talents to Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana, joining the Butler Bulldogs football program in 2022. Playing on the defensive line and wearing No. 96, Mack developed into a 6-foot-2, 265-pound defensive lineman.
After redshirting during the 2022 season, Mack appeared in eight games in 2023. He played in four games during the 2024 season and continued contributing to the Bulldogs in 2025. During his 2025 redshirt-junior season, he appeared in six games and recorded 12 total tackles, including seven solo tackles, along with a fumble recovery. His season-high four tackles came against Morehead State.
Mack's achievements extend beyond the football field. He pursued studies in risk management and insurance through Butler University's Andre B. Lacy School of Business. In March 2025, he was named one of the recipients of the Hylant Risk Management & Insurance Endowed Scholarship, an award supporting promising students preparing for careers in the risk management and insurance industry. The scholarship announcement specifically recognized Mack's commitment to both academics and athletics.
His combination of athletics and academics reflects the discipline required of a collegiate student-athlete. By balancing the demands of NCAA football with preparation for a professional career in business, risk management, insurance, and marketing, Mack has continued building a foundation for success beyond the playing field. A 2025 Pioneer Football League academic honor roll document lists his academic areas as Risk Management & Insurance and Marketing.
As the 5th great-grandson of William Graham, Sr. and Sarah Jacobs-Graham, Frenchi Mack II represents a younger generation carrying forward a family legacy that stretches back generations in southeastern North Carolina.
His journey from Bowie, Maryland, and IMG Academy to Butler University football demonstrates dedication, perseverance, academic ambition, and athletic ability. Frenchi Mack II adds another proud chapter to the continuing story of the descendants of William Graham, Sr. and Sarah Jacobs-Graham.
Devin McGlockton
Devin McGlockton is an accomplished basketball player and the 5th great-grandson of William Graham, Sr. and Sarah Jacobs-Graham. A native of Cumming, Georgia, McGlockton developed into a standout two-sport athlete before establishing himself as a talented NCAA Division I basketball player at Boston College and Vanderbilt University.
Athletic excellence runs strongly through McGlockton's immediate family. His father, Leon McGlockton, played college football at Fayetteville State University, where he earned all-conference honors. Devin is also the nephew of the late Chester McGlockton, the legendary Clemson University defensive lineman who became a four-time Pro Bowl selection during a 12-year NFL playing career.
Devin attended South Forsyth High School in Georgia, where he excelled in both basketball and football. As a senior basketball player, he averaged 18 points and 10 rebounds per game, earned Class 7A All-State honors, and helped lead South Forsyth to a school-record 23 victories and its first regional championship in 23 years. He completed his high school basketball career as South Forsyth's all-time leader in points and rebounds and ranked second in school history in blocked shots.
McGlockton was equally impressive on the football field. Playing tight end, he earned First-Team All-State honors in 2020. Although his family's football background made football a natural option, McGlockton ultimately chose to pursue basketball at the collegiate level.
He began his collegiate basketball career at Boston College. After redshirting during the 2021–22 season, McGlockton steadily developed into an important member of the Eagles. During the 2023–24 season, he started all 36 games and averaged 10.2 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, while shooting an impressive 57.5 percent from the field. He scored a career-high 30 points against Georgia Tech, connecting on 12 of 15 field-goal attempts.
McGlockton transferred to Vanderbilt University for the 2024–25 season and immediately made his presence felt in the Southeastern Conference. In his Vanderbilt debut, he made 10 of his field-goal attempts, setting a school record while producing 24 points and 13 rebounds. During that season, he started all 33 games and averaged 10.3 points and 7.9 rebounds, recorded seven double-doubles, and led Vanderbilt with 36 blocked shots.
During his two seasons at Vanderbilt, McGlockton started all 69 games, averaging 9.9 points and 7.3 rebounds while shooting 56.1 percent from the field. His contributions helped Vanderbilt earn back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances, and he was part of a Commodores program that accumulated 47 victories during his two seasons. In 2026, Vanderbilt also earned its first NCAA Tournament victory in more than a decade.
Following the completion of his Vanderbilt career, McGlockton took an important step toward professional basketball. In June 2026, he agreed to an NBA Summer League deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves, providing him with an opportunity to showcase his skills at the professional level. Vanderbilt head coach Mark Byington praised McGlockton as an unselfish player willing to do whatever was necessary to help his team win.
McGlockton's career is characterized by versatility, toughness, rebounding ability, efficient scoring, and a willingness to perform the less-visible tasks that contribute to winning. His background as both a football and basketball player helped shape the physical style and determination he brought to the basketball court.
As the 5th great-grandson of William Graham, Sr. and Sarah Jacobs-Graham, Devin McGlockton represents another generation of a family whose descendants have distinguished themselves in athletics and numerous other fields.
From his success at South Forsyth High School to Boston College, Vanderbilt University, the NCAA Tournament, and an opportunity with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Devin McGlockton has continued an impressive family athletic tradition. His accomplishments add another chapter to the remarkable history of the descendants of William Graham, Sr. and Sarah Jacobs-Graham.
The Descendants of William Graham Sr. and Sarah Jacobs
Professional Mixed Martial Artis
Desmond J. Bryant
Desmond Jerel Bryant is a former National Football League defensive lineman, Harvard University graduate, entrepreneur, and wellness advocate whose remarkable journey is one of education, perseverance, athletic achievement, and personal transformation. He is the 5th great-grandson of William Graham Sr. and Sarah Jacobs-Graham, connecting him to a family whose roots run deep in southeastern North Carolina.
Bryant was born December 15, 1985, and is the son of Alton Bryant and Lillian Rogers Bryant, both of whom were born in Bladen County, North Carolina. His parents' North Carolina roots connect Desmond to generations of families who lived, worked, raised families, and helped build communities throughout the Cape Fear region.
Harvard University
Bryant's accomplishments extend well beyond athletics. An outstanding student and athlete, he attended Harvard University, where he studied psychology and played defensive line for the Harvard Crimson football team.
Balancing the academic demands of an Ivy League education with the responsibilities of a Division I college athlete required tremendous discipline. His years at Harvard prepared him not only for professional football but also for the challenges and opportunities that would follow throughout his life.
National Football League Career
Despite not being selected in the 2009 NFL Draft, Bryant remained determined to pursue his dream of playing professional football. He signed with the Oakland Raiders as an undrafted free agent and earned his place in the NFL through persistence, hard work, and performance.
Bryant spent four seasons with Oakland before signing with the Cleveland Browns in 2013. As a defensive lineman, he became known for his strength, athleticism, intelligence, and ability to pressure opposing offenses.
His journey from an undrafted Harvard graduate to an established NFL defensive lineman is an impressive accomplishment. He overcame long odds to reach the highest level of professional football and remained in the league for several seasons.
Life Beyond Football
One of the most meaningful chapters of Bryant's story began after his professional football career.
Transitioning from the highly competitive world of the NFL presented new challenges and ultimately led Bryant to a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. He found strength and direction through yoga, meditation, breathwork, and other wellness practices.
Yoga became more than a form of physical exercise. It became an important part of Bryant's effort to rebuild his life, establish balance, and develop a new sense of purpose beyond football.
Bryant eventually became the owner of Hanu Yoga Studio in Miami Beach, Florida, bringing his personal appreciation for yoga and wellness into entrepreneurship. The studio later evolved into Hanu Wellness, expanding its focus on practices designed to strengthen the body, mind, and overall well-being.
Through this work, Bryant has been able to transform lessons from his own journey into opportunities to encourage and support others seeking healthier and more balanced lives.
Continuing the Graham Family Legacy
Desmond J. Bryant's story represents far more than professional athletic achievement. His journey encompasses family heritage, education, determination, resilience, entrepreneurship, and personal growth.
From his family's roots in Bladen County, North Carolina, to the classrooms and football field of Harvard University, to the stadiums of the National Football League, and ultimately to his work in wellness and entrepreneurship, Bryant has continually demonstrated the ability to pursue new goals and reinvent himself.
As the 5th great-grandson of William Graham Sr. and Sarah Jacobs-Graham, Desmond J. Bryant represents another distinguished generation of their descendants. His accomplishments add a unique chapter to the Graham family story—a legacy that began generations ago in southeastern North Carolina and continues through descendants who have made their mark in education, athletics, business, public service, medicine, the arts, and many other fields.
Desmond J. Bryant's life is a powerful example of perseverance: reaching the highest level of professional athletics, embracing change when one chapter ended, and finding a new purpose centered on wellness, growth, and helping others.
Former NFL Defensive Lineman • Harvard University Graduate
Jay Randall Ross
Jay Randall Ross, a former NFL defensive lineman and Super Bowl champion, was born October 3, 1987, in Wilmington, North Carolina. He attended New Hanover High School, where his athletic ability helped pave the way for a successful collegiate and professional football career.
Ross continued his education and football career at East Carolina University (ECU). As a defensive lineman for the Pirates, he became a three-year starter and appeared in 52 games, including 42 starts. During his collegiate career, he recorded 140 tackles, 25 tackles for loss, and eight sacks. His performance earned him Honorable Mention All-Conference USA honors three times.
In 2010, Ross began his professional football career as an undrafted free agent with the New Orleans Saints. He later joined the Green Bay Packers' practice squad during the 2010 season. Ross was a member of the Packers organization during their championship season, when Green Bay defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 31–25 in Super Bowl XLV, making him a Super Bowl champion.
Ross later joined the Buffalo Bills, appearing in six regular-season NFL games during the 2012 and 2013 seasons. During his professional career, he was listed at 6 feet 3 inches tall and 319 pounds.
Following his football career, Ross returned to his hometown community and pursued a career in law enforcement with the New Hanover County Sheriff's Office. In March 2025, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant, with responsibilities that included supervising the agency's School Resource Officer program.
Beyond his accomplishments in athletics and public service, Jay Randall Ross carries an important connection to the history of the Graham family of southeastern North Carolina. He is a fifth great-grandson of William Graham, Sr. (b. 1790) and Sarah Jacobs-Graham (b. 1794).
Through Sarah Jacobs-Graham, Ross is also a descendant of Zachariah Jacobs (Holmes) (1753–1847), a free-born man of color who served the American cause during the Revolutionary War. This ancestral connection places Jay Randall Ross among the many descendants of William and Sarah Graham whose lives and achievements continue the family's legacy across generations.
From the Graham family's early roots in southeastern North Carolina to collegiate athletics, the National Football League, a Super Bowl championship, and community service in law enforcement, Jay Randall Ross represents another distinguished chapter in the history of the descendants of William Graham, Sr. and Sarah Jacobs-Graham.
