Eric Sutton was an outstanding point guard for Stivers during the 1971-1975 years. He and Frankie Sanders, also a Stivers Hall of Fame member, led the Tigers to the Ohio State Finals during their senior year. That team was a fun group to watch but unfortunately lost the championship in a double overtime. Eric averaged 21.1 points per game in his senior year. He was selected All-City, All-District and All-Area which recognized his abilities as a solid team player and a competitor. He was selected to play in the Dayton All-Stars game and the Ohio All-Star game. Coach Earl Johnson said, “Eric is the heart of this team. His ability to see teammates from outside and throw a perfect pass leads to easy baskets underneath.” Sutton was also able to keep the fast break going which resulted in many easy baskets by his teammates.
Eric received a full scholarship to Lemoyne Owens College in Memphis, Tennessee. He was a four year starter at point guard achieving All-Conference and All-District honors. As a college senior, Eric was named to the Small College All-American team. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Physical Education.
Eric found employment with Federal Express following graduation from college and later had a career as a physical education teacher and basketball referee. He became involved in AAU basketball and founded The Next Generation Basketball Program in the state of Washington.
Eric and his wife, Jennifer, have four beautiful children: Brandon, Erica, Jordan and Ameer. He also has two great step-children: Kevin and Victoria. He continues to have strong ties to Ohio with family and friends.