Sports and Theatre: The Arena that Connects Us

Syracuse Stage presents a panel discussion with former Orange athletes Eric Devendorf and Eric Jackson moderated by former editor of ESPN.com Javier Maymi-Perez in conjunction with the play King James, examining the role of sports in building community through fandom and how it can result in unexpected friendships and lasting connections.

PANELISTS:

Eric Jackson – SU Football Alum, Syracuse Stage Board Trustee and Founder of Black Cub Productions

Eric Jackson, born and raised in Los Angeles, CA received his Bachelor’s degree in Television Radio & Film with a minor in Information Management & Technology, as well as his Master’s degree in Multimedia, Photography, & Design—both from Syracuse University. Since launching Black Cub in Syracuse, Eric has helped build the Salt City Market’s brand, won an American Advertising (ADDY) award for the campaign, Put the “U” back in Syracuse, and has worked with LG and Netflix on campaign videos. Eric is currently a trustee of Syracuse Stage. Eric is currently living and operating in Syracuse, NY and has large plans for developing Black Cub as a means to give back to this city and to this community. Co-Owner and CEO of Black Cub Productions.

Eric Devendorf – SU Basketball Alum, Professional NBA player and Founder of ED23

Eric Devendorf is a former professional basketball player and current expert coach and broadcast basketball color commentator. With over a decade of experience in coaching and player development, he has mentored athletes at the youth, high school, college, and professional levels. After playing for Syracuse University, where he scored 1,680 points, Eric enjoyed a successful seven-year professional career in the NBA D-League and internationally. He later returned to Syracuse as a player development coach and served as an assistant coach at Detroit Mercy.

Today, Eric runs ED23HOOPS, a basketball training initiative, and the ED23 Foundation, which focuses on giving back to the Central New York community. Through the Foundation, Eric organizes annual turkey drives, provides scholarships, and leads programs that empower underserved youth. His work impacts the lives of children and families, promoting education, sports, and opportunities for personal growth. Eric’s commitment to philanthropy and youth development continues to make a positive difference in the community he calls home.

Moderated by: Javier Maymí-Pérez – Adjunct Professor at Syracuse University, and former editor at ESPNDeportes.com and ESPN.com

Javier Maymi-Perez is currently an Adjunct Professor at Syracuse University and Director of Communications for the Law School Admission Council. Prior to working in academia, Javier’s journalism career spanned three decades working as a sportswriter, columnist and editor for several local, national and international media outlets including The San Juan Star, El Vocero de Puerto Rico, The Associated Press, The Tampa Tribune, ESPN, ESPN.com and ESPN Deportes.com.

This event is part of the Humanities Center’s 2024-2025 Syracuse Symposium series on “Community.”

Learn more