Parson, Dodd Clinch Top CIAA Honors
In the heart of Winston-Salem, two stars have emerged on the hardwood, shining bright in the collegiate basketball sky. Isaac Parson and Imajae Dodd, once the pride of Eastern North Carolina's high school basketball, have continued their ascent, clinching prestigious accolades in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) for the 2023-24 season. Parson, a former standout at Kinston High, was named to the All-CIAA First Team, while Dodd, a Greene Central alumnus, snagged the Defensive Player of the Year honors. Their journey from local heroes to collegiate stars is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and sheer talent.
Isaac Parson's path has been marked by perseverance and skillful playmaking. After joining Winston Salem State University (WSSU) in 2020, Parson quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. Despite a season-ending hand injury that required surgery, Parson bounced back stronger than ever. "I put in a lot of work this summer, in particular, because I was injured and I was trying to get back right. So had rehab three days a week, and I was in the gym every day. So this meant a lot because I know how much I had to work this summer," Parson reflected. His resilience paid off, leading him to average 12.4 points, 4.9 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game this season, showcasing his all-around game and leadership on the court.
Imajae Dodd's journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Having transferred to WSSU after stints at UNCW and Charleston Southern, Dodd has found his footing and excelled in his defensive role. Leading the CIAA in blocks (2.2 per game) and ranking second in rebounding (7.5 per game), Dodd has become the defensive backbone for his team. His hard work and focus on defensive excellence were recognized with the Defensive Player of the Year award. Dodd shared his thoughts on the achievement: "It feels good to win this award in a conference where defense is prioritized. It's crazy because this award has been one of my goals before I started the season."
Both athletes' journeys from their roots in Lenoir and Greene counties to the accolades at WSSU reflect their unyielding spirit and dedication to the game of basketball. Parson, an Accounting major and three-time all-conference selection in high school, and Dodd, a relentless defender with a history of impressive performances, embody the essence of student-athletes striving for excellence both on and off the court.
As Parson and Dodd continue to make waves in collegiate basketball, their stories serve as an inspiration to many young athletes back home in Eastern North Carolina and beyond. Their achievements are not just personal milestones but a beacon of hope for aspiring players from small towns with big dreams.
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