Trey has battled with mental health struggles since he was in the 7th grade. While he speaks regularly about his mental health and encourages others to take care of theirs, it was his best friend and teammate, who made a lasting impact that pushed him to live for a bigger purpose.

After a breakout sophomore season in college, Trey could not wait to finally play alongside Zach, who was redshirting and had yet to play. But that was a dream that would never manifest. It was early in his junior year and like many college students Trey liked to get his sleep. Trey had a routine of waking up 15 minutes before his morning class, throwing on some clothes, and heading out the door. On this particular morning, Trey woke up to four missed calls and two voicemails from Zach. In his rush to class, he sent a “what’s up” text and did not think much of it. 

He never got a reply from Zach. After his school day ended Trey still had not heard from his teammate, and they had a team meeting coming soon. Trey got in contact with Zach’s roommate and arranged to be let into the apartment. Upon entry Trey discovered that his best friend had died by suicide – a moment that will live with him forever.

In response to this, Trey dedicated the rest of his career to Zach and even got permission from Zach’s family to wear his number 24. While Zach’s family never got to see him play, seeing Trey wear the number 24 would allow them to see a piece of Zach every time Trey played. It did not stop there, by deciding to share his story Trey used his platform as a star athlete to encourage others.

Playing basketball allows Trey the opportunity to share his story globally and has impacted people all around the world. In 2018 he was invited to participate in a sports mission trip with the nonprofit Athletes in Action, and while in New Zealand he played eight games where at halftime he told his story with more than 500 people in a country with one of the highest suicide rates in the world.

Trey went on to play basketball professionally in Europe and in Australia’s National Basketball League. In 2020, Trey was honored with the NCAA Inspiration Award for his ability to use his own story as a springboard to help others. His father was slated to accept the Inspiration Award for him in Los Angeles, but when COVID-19 canceled his season, they were able to attend together.

“In my life, basketball has been a godsend for me. As long as I can play, I want to do that. And there will always be time to help others along the way.”

—
Trey Moses
President, 24 Reasons