1997 Greater Flint African American Sports Hall of Fame Inductee
Category: Multiple Sports
James came to Flint as a youngster from Alabama. He grew up on the north side of Flint, attending Roosevelt and Jefferson Elementary, Emerson Jr. High, Northern High and attended Indiana State. Growing up James always played with the older guys in the neighborhood. One of those older guys was Arden Relerford, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1995. And, because of guys like Relerford, James was inspired to go on and become one of Flint Northern’s great athletes.
FOOTBALL
1958 City, Valley and State Champions All-City Halfback All-Valley Halfback All-State Halfback 2nd most yards rushing in a season – 1,022 Scored 12 touchdowns Team’s leading scorer – 72 points
1959 Flint Northern Co-Captain 2nd Team All-Valley 2nd Team All-Classes All-State 3rd in Valley scoring – 24 points 2nd Team All-State Flint Northern career rushing – 1,585
TRACK:
1960 Co-Captain Medley relay record – 2:29.7 AAU mile relay – 3:35.9 City, Valley Regional Champions City track meet broad jump record – 22.3
COLLEGE:
1960 Freshman Indiana State – started as Tailback 1961 Sophomore – started at Left Halfback
