UTH Pod: Writer/producer of stage play "Dirty Sneakers" - Eric "Tree" Moore

J-Hood talks to Eric "Tree" Moore, writer, producer of the new stage play "Dirty Sneakers" #NBA #basketballplayer Subscribe to Under the Hood presented by: http://nhschicago.org https://linktree.com/jhoodradio What: Dirty Sneakers stage Play When: Saturday, September 20th, 2025 Time: 1 pm show & 6 pm show Where: Kennedy King CollegeTheater, 740 W 63rd St, Chicago, IL From Street Baller to Division 1 scholarship athlete! Get ready for a fun-filled, inspirational ride through trials, triumphs, and everything in between with the stage play "Dirty Sneakers" written and produced by former professional basketball player, Englewood's own Eric "Tree" Moore, with 2 shows at Kennedy-King College on Saturday, September 20th. This is more than just a play, this is a Chicago high school reunion- a chance to laugh, reminisce and reconnect! From survivor to thriver, "Dirty Sneakers" tells the life story of Chicago native Eric "Tree" Moore, how he learned early how to rise above chaos and adversity. From his first games of basketball in a neighborhood alley, his talent and determination carried him to a scholarship at the prestigious De La Salle High School. In 1983 he recieved the Tony Lawless Unanimous MVP of the Chicago Catholic League. He was recruited by more than 100 colleges before choosing Furman University in South Carolina. While in college, both of Eric's parents were murdered in separate incidents. His father was a street hustler (narcotics/prostitution) and his mom sold and used drugs. Despite his grief, Eric leaned into his faith and continued to navigate college academics and basketball. He persevered in academics and continued to excel in basketball-driven by his commitment to be a role model for his younger brother. After graduation, he went on to play professionally in Ecuador before returning to the U.S. to serve with the Los Angeles Police Department. Rising to the rank of Detective Ill, Eric retired after 27 years of service. His career also gave him the opportunity to continue playing basketball internationally during vacations and extended leaves. Eric has a mentoring program in Los Angeles called Millionaire Mondays and brings out successful men speaking to college and high school kids. Eric also speaks about a Basketball Hangover, which is when they stop playing basketball and get in trouble because they don't have any other plans. He wants them to understand value and don't get caught up. Eric wants his play "Dirty Sneakers" to inspire others and wants people to understand his messages. He said he is a kid from Englewood who beat the odds. He said "I played basketball-I did not let basketball play me."