Spartans of UD - Jonathan "Jay" Moore (C'08)

Spartans of UD highlights what makes the University of Dubuque special - the people.

Jonathan "Jay" Moore (C'08) is the founder and president of T.R.U.T.H. Basketball Academy in DeKalb, Illinois. He has 14 years of experience in the basketball world at DeKalb High School, Kishwaukee College, Illinois Attack, and Illinois Rockets. Jay currently coaches at DeKalb High School and is also involved with the Illinois Wolves Travel Basketball Program, a nationally recognized travel basketball team and founding member of the Under Armour Association. Additionally, he is a two-time National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Coach of the Month.

As an undergraduate student, Jay was a communication major and a member of the men's basketball team.

You founded T.R.U.T.H. Basketball Academy in 2024. Where did the vision for the academy that goes beyond the court and the game come from?

"The vision for T.R.U.T.H. Basketball Academy goes far beyond just the game itself. I've been blessed to grow up in Gary, Indiana, and I want to first thank God for instilling this vision in me. Growing up, I was fortunate to have a strong support system around me. My family played an essential role in shaping who I am today, but it was truly my village - my friends, church family, teachers, coaches, pastors, and community members - that contributed mightily to my success. They all poured into me in different ways, and I feel a deep sense of gratitude and responsibility to pay it forward.

"I feel obligated to give back in the same way I was helped, and that's why I started T.R.U.T.H. Basketball Academy. It's my way of providing young people with the same kind of guidance, mentorship, and opportunity that I was fortunate enough to receive. My mission is to help them become not only the best athletes they can be, but also the best versions of themselves, on and off the court. This academy is about building character, leadership, and discipline that will last far beyond the game."

What life lessons do you hope T.R.U.T.H. Basketball Academy can teach athletes?

"At T.R.U.T.H. Basketball Academy, I hope to teach athletes several important life lessons that extend far beyond the game of basketball. One of the biggest lessons I emphasize is that while there are only so many professional basketball opportunities, there are countless ways to find success in life. I want the young people in our academy to understand that their worth and potential aren't solely tied to basketball. Success can come through many paths - whether it's through business, leadership, education, or any other field - and we want them to believe that they can be successful no matter where life takes them.

"Growing up, I was - and still am - a huge Michael Jordan fan, and my mother used to always tell me that while it's great to admire and follow someone, why not aspire to be the person who signs Michael Jordan's check? That thought stuck with me, and it's something I carry with me to this day. To me, being successful isn't just about making it in sports. It's about loving God, loving and providing for your family, and being a person of integrity. These values are at the core of what we want to instill in every athlete who walks through our doors.

"Ultimately, it's not just about being great on the court - it's about becoming a great person off the court as well. If we can help these athletes build strong character and develop the skills they need to succeed in life, then we're doing our job."

What do you enjoy most about being a coach?

"What I enjoy most about being a coach is building relationships with the players and watching them achieve their goals and dreams. It's incredibly rewarding to see them progress, whether that's becoming an All-Conference player, earning an All-American title, winning a state championship, or earning a college scholarship - whether that's academically or athletically. And it's not just about sports accomplishments. Seeing them graduate high school or college, and in some cases, being the first person in their family to do so, is something that truly moves me. Every milestone, no matter how big or small, counts. Being part of that journey and knowing that I helped contribute to their growth - both as athletes and as people - is what makes coaching so special for me."

What was a highlight from your basketball career at the University of Dubuque?

"A highlight from my basketball career at the University of Dubuque would most definitely be when we beat UW-Platteville in 2005. UW-P was one of the top-ranked teams in the country at that time, with a roster full of talented players and a well-coached team. The energy surrounding that game was incredible. Coach McDermott, Robbie, and DB were so dialed in and focused all week, knowing the magnitude of the game and the challenge we were facing with a ranked team coming into our building.

"It was also my first game in a UD uniform, and there was a lot of buzz surrounding myself and a few other transfers joining a pretty good team that returned a lot of talent from the previous year. The combination of that excitement and the intense atmosphere in Stoltz Gym made it an unforgettable experience. To top it off, we not only won the game, but I finished with a double-double, which was a personal highlight. Beating one of the best teams in the country and contributing to that victory in such a meaningful way is something I'll always remember."

How do you stay involved with your alma mater since graduating?

"Since graduating, I try to stay involved with my alma mater as much as possible. One way I do that is by watching the young guys play whenever they're in the Chicagoland area. I always make sure to stream the games as well - big shoutout to the 2025 Conference Champs! Coach Sieverding and I exchange texts quite often, and I love staying in touch with him.

"A few players I've coached have followed in my footsteps and gone on to play at UD for Coach Rob, and I've enjoyed seeing them have successful careers there. Homecoming is always a special time for me. It's an event I look forward to every year. Getting back to campus, seeing how much the community has grown, and reconnecting with familiar faces is always a great experience. It's truly a wonderful time to catch up with other Spartans and see how far we've all come since our days on campus."

In your opinion, what makes the University of Dubuque unique?

"In my opinion, what makes the University of Dubuque unique is the strong family atmosphere and the overwhelming support you feel from the moment you step on campus. The sense of community at UD is unmatched, and I've met lifelong friends there who have had a lasting impact on my life. I can't say enough about Dr. Bullock and his leadership during his time at UD - he played a huge role in shaping the university into what it is today.

"From an athletic point of view, one of the things that makes UD special is how the fans continue to follow your career even after you leave. I've noticed how much the UD community stays connected, especially when it comes to athletics. It's always humbling to know that people still care about your success long after you've graduated.

"Living in the Chicagoland area makes it easy to network with other UD alums. There's a strong sense of camaraderie among Spartans, and it's always great to connect with fellow alumni who share similar experiences and values. During my time at UD, I met some incredible people and worked with instructors who challenged me and pushed me to think critically every day. The education I received at UD went far beyond textbooks; it truly expanded my perspective. I've traveled all over the world, but there's definitely no place like UD. The connections, the community, and the experiences you gain there are truly special. Go Spartans!"