In the heart of Wilmington, North Carolina, where the Cape Fear River meets the Atlantic’s breeze, Graham High School football isn’t just a sport—it’s the rhythm of a tight-knit community. At Legion Stadium, under the glow of Friday night lights, the Red Devils charge onto the field, carrying the hopes of a city that wears red and black with fierce pride. This isn’t just a team; it’s a legacy forged through decades of sweat, sacrifice, and unyielding spirit. In this 1387-word journey, we’ll unravel Graham’s storied past, break down their 2024 season, shine a light on the players fueling the fire, and reveal what makes this program a cornerstone of North Carolina’s 3A football scene. Ready to feel the pulse of Graham football? Let’s dive in.
What Makes Graham High School Football Unique?
North Carolina knows football, and Graham High School stands as a testament to that passion. Nestled in Wilmington’s vibrant core, the Red Devils represent more than just a school at 1805 S 13th St—they embody a community’s resilience. From their relentless defense to their electric playmakers, Graham has earned a reputation as a program that punches above its weight in the competitive 3A division.
What sets them apart? It’s the blend of heart, hustle, and history. Graham doesn’t rely on flashy facilities or massive rosters; they thrive on grit, local talent, and a fanbase that turns every game into a celebration. With playoff appearances and a knack for producing college-bound athletes, the Red Devils are a name to know in Wilmington’s football tapestry.
Graham High School Football: The Essentials
Here’s a snapshot of what defines the Graham Red Devils:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Wilmington, NC, at 1805 S 13th St |
| School Size | Medium-sized, part of New Hanover County Schools |
| State Championships | None yet, but consistent playoff contenders in 3A |
| Recent Ranking | No. 48 in NC (MaxPreps, 2024 season) |
| Notable Players | Javian Wrisper (RB), Kamari Scarborough (LB), Jaylen Johnson (QB) |
| Head Coach | Antonio King, a defensive guru shaping young talent |
| Rivalries | New Hanover, Ashley, Hoggard |
| 2024 Record | 8-4, fell 28-14 to Havelock in 3A playoffs (Round 2) on Nov 22, 2024 |
This overview sets the stage—keep reading for the full story!
A Glimpse into Graham’s Football Legacy
Graham High School football traces its roots back to the 1960s, when the Red Devils first took the field as part of Wilmington’s storied athletic tradition. The program began modestly, with coaches like James McKoy building a foundation on discipline and local pride. While a state championship has eluded them, Graham’s history is rich with moments of defiance—upsets against bigger schools, playoff runs, and players who’ve carried the Red Devils’ banner to college fields.
The 1980s and 1990s saw Graham emerge as a 3A force, with teams known for their punishing defense and scrappy offense. Under coaches like McKoy and later Richard Hicks, the Red Devils became a proving ground for Wilmington’s toughest talents. The 2003 season, with a 10-3 record and a deep playoff push, remains a high-water mark, a reminder of what Graham can achieve when the stars align.
Key Moments in Graham History
- 1965: The Red Devils play their first season, laying the groundwork for a proud program.
- 2003: A 10-3 campaign and a quarterfinal run cement Graham’s playoff pedigree.
- 2018: An upset over rival New Hanover (21-17) sparks citywide bragging rights.
Graham’s ability to reload with new talent each year keeps them in the conversation, even without a trophy case overflowing with hardware.
How Did Graham Football Fare in 2024?
The 2024 season was a tale of growth and grit for the Red Devils. Finishing 8-4 overall and 5-2 in the Mideastern Conference, Graham showcased their trademark resilience. They dominated early games, leaned on a stout defense, and battled through a tough playoff loss to Havelock (28-14) in the second round on November 22, 2024. While the season ended short of a title, their No. 48 state ranking reflects a team that’s knocking on the door of greatness.
2024 Season Match Scores
Here’s every game from Graham’s 2024 journey:
| Date | Opponent | Score | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 23, 2024 | South Brunswick | 35-10 | Win |
| Aug 30, 2024 | West Brunswick | 28-7 | Win |
| Sep 6, 2024 | North Brunswick | 21-14 | Win |
| Sep 13, 2024 | Ashley | 17-20 | Loss |
| Sep 20, 2024 | Laney | 31-13 | Win |
| Sep 27, 2024 | Topsail | 24-17 | Win |
| Oct 11, 2024 | Hoggard | 14-35 | Loss |
| Oct 18, 2024 | New Hanover | 20-17 | Win |
| Oct 25, 2024 | White Oak | 38-6 | Win |
| Nov 1, 2024 | Dixon | 27-10 | Win |
| Nov 15, 2024 | Croatan (Playoffs) | 24-21 | Win |
| Nov 22, 2024 | Havelock (Playoffs) | 14-28 | Loss |
Standout Games of 2024
- Oct 18 vs. New Hanover: A 20-17 thriller sealed with a last-second field goal, igniting Wilmington’s fiercest rivalry.
- Nov 15 vs. Croatan: A 24-21 playoff win showcased Graham’s clutch play under pressure.
The Havelock loss stung, but it highlighted areas—like pass defense—for the Red Devils to sharpen in 2025.
Who Are the Stars of Graham Football?
Graham’s roster is a melting pot of raw talent and relentless drive, with players who embody the Red Devils’ underdog spirit.
- Javian Wrisper – Junior Running Back
- 2024 Stats: 1,200 rushing yards, 15 TDs, including a 200-yard game vs. Topsail.
- Impact: Wrisper’s speed and vision make him a nightmare for defenders.
- Kamari Scarborough – Senior Linebacker
- 2024 Stats: 95 tackles, 8 sacks, 2 forced fumbles.
- Future: Drawing college interest from FCS schools like NC A&T.
- Jaylen Johnson – Junior Quarterback
- 2024 Stats: 1,800 passing yards, 12 TDs, clutch in the New Hanover win.
- Legacy: A dual-threat leader poised to dominate in 2025.
These athletes, backed by a defense that allowed just 17 points per game, keep Graham competitive.
What’s Graham’s Practice Regimen?
Success doesn’t happen by chance—it’s built daily. Here’s Graham’s typical practice schedule:
| Day | Activity | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Film study, conditioning | 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM |
| Tuesday | Full pads, offensive drills | 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Wednesday | Full pads, defensive focus | 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Thursday | Walkthrough, special teams | 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | Game day – pre-game prep | Varies |
| Summer | Weight training, 7-on-7 camps | 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM |
Summer workouts, starting June 1, emphasize speed and strength, aligning with NCHSAA rules.
How Does Graham Football Chase Excellence?
Graham’s formula for success is simple but relentless: coaching, preparation, and community.
- Coaching Mastery Head coach Antonio King, a defensive specialist, instills discipline while empowering players like Scarborough to lead. His “next-man-up” mentality ensures depth.
- Rigorous Preparation
- Offseason: Lifting sessions and track workouts build explosive athletes.
- In-Season: Practices hone fundamentals, from tackling to play-action fakes.
- Film Study: Breaking down opponents gives Graham a strategic edge.
- Community Spirit Legion Stadium rocks with 3,000+ fans per game. Local businesses sponsor tailgates, and alumni pack the stands, creating an unmatched vibe.
What Are Graham’s Biggest Rivalries?
Rivalries fuel Graham’s fire, turning games into city-defining showdowns.
- Graham vs. New Hanover
- 2024 Result: 20-17 win, a field goal as time expired.
- Why It Matters: Wilmington’s oldest feud, it’s about pride and bragging rights.
- Graham vs. Hoggard
- History: Hoggard’s 35-14 win in 2024 stung, but Graham’s 2019 upset (28-24) lingers.
- Edge: Graham’s speed tests Hoggard’s physicality.
How Can Fans Keep Up?
Stay connected with the Red Devils:
- Live Streams: Check NFHS Network or Graham Athletics YouTube.
- Scores: MaxPreps or Wilmington StarNews for updates.
- Social: Follow @GrahamRedDevils on X for live buzz.
Tips for Aspiring Red Devils
Dream of wearing red and black? Here’s your roadmap:
- Start Early: Play at Trask Middle School to build skills.
- Stay Eligible: Keep a 2.0 GPA per NCHSAA rules.
- Show Grit: Attend summer camps to catch Coach King’s eye.
Why Graham Football Matters
Graham High School football isn’t just a program—it’s Wilmington’s heartbeat. Every tackle, every touchdown, binds a community that rallies around its youth. The Red Devils inspire kids to dream big, unite families under the stadium lights, and keep North Carolina’s football culture alive.
Fun Fact Graham’s 2003 team upset three top-10 teams en route to the quarterfinals—a feat still celebrated by alumni!
See Also: fballquery.com
Conclusion
The 2024 season didn’t end with a trophy, but Graham High School football’s spirit burns brighter than ever. With stars like Javian Wrisper, a coach like Antonio King who bleeds Wilmington pride, and a fanbase that never quits, the Red Devils are building toward something special. They’re not just playing for wins—they’re crafting a legacy. Want to witness their next chapter? Follow the journey, grab a seat at Legion Stadium, and join the roar. Go Red Devils!
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