Introduction to the Harlem Globetrotters
Olympic gold, meet the Harlem Globetrotters. Although it may be a longshot as things stand, the Globetrotters know a thing or two about setting records on the world stage. That sets the tone for a momentous 2026, as the Globetrotters will soon embark on their tour to commemorate their 100-year anniversary after being founded in 1926.
The 100 Year Tour
Widely known for their mind-boggling trick shots and unique style of hoops, "The Harlem Globetrotters 100 Year Tour" kicks off on Sunday, Dec. 14, in New York City. Last year, the team toured 400-plus cities across 25-plus countries, with tickets for the centennial season available for purchase at HarlemGlobetrotters.com.
What to Expect from a Globetrotters Game
For basketball fans and beyond who may not be familiar with what the Globetrotters bring to the hardwood, current member Cherelle "Torch" George broke it down. "Expect fan interaction," George started. "Like there’s no game like a Globetrotter game. We got what’s called the fifth quarter. After the game, kids, adults, you can stand in your favorite Globetrotters line, take a selfie, get your basketball autographs, anything autographed pretty much except for money.
The Globetrotters’ Legacy
The games are not just a memory for visiting fans. For members like George, the interactions with new and familiar faces are what they cherish the most as the Globetrotters have also grown in other aspects, such as through their hit television series. The documentary “Harlem Globetrotters: Play it Forward,” which airs every Saturday morning during NBC’s “The More You Know” educational block and is available to stream on Peacock, has earned three Emmy nominations.
Honoring the Past
Rochell "Wham" Middleton, George’s teammate, also understands the weight of the jersey they wear entering the centennial season, while honoring those that made the team iconic. "It’s a lot of history," Middleton started. "We’ve had many amazing players come and play with the Globetrotters through the hundred years. Of course, you got the Meadowlark Lemon and the Curly Neal, but you also got Wilt Chamberlain, you got Big Easy, you got Handles Franklin. And let’s not forget about Sweet Lou Dunbar." "You got to put a little girl power in there," George added. Lynnette Woodard being the first female Globetrotter, broke that gender barrier, which opened the door for players like myself, TNT [Lister] and all the new female players that are coming in. …We’re standing on the shoulders of pioneers, literally legendary players."
Dream Team Picks
Parallel to the Globetrotters, both the NBA and WNBA also have lengthy legacies of producing elite talents. Which stars would George and Middleton recruit to their team today? "With my first pick of the centennial year, I would like to draft my favorite player, Stephen Curry," Middleton started. "Because we do have a four-point line, which is five feet behind the NBA’s, and I think he’ll be great at that." Along with the Golden State Warriors guard, Middleton would add Dallas Wings’ Paige Bueckers, who is coming off a Rookie of the Year-winning start in the WNBA. For George, her NBA pick would be Memphis Grizzlies’ high-flying guard Ja Morant, while the WNBA pick is similar to Curry.
Olympic Dreams
But while the Globetrotters have achieved so much on and off the court, they are missing one thing they’d like to add: an Olympic medal. There are 5-on-5 and 3-on-3 competitions in the Games now, but what would that look like for the Globetrotters and what’d be their pitch to get in? "You just ask us," George said bluntly. "We’re there. ‘How do you get us there?’ Just ask. We’re there. We would love it. Listen, I am inspired by greatness. And as athletes, I love to watch the Olympics and be a part of it in any way.
Conclusion
The Harlem Globetrotters are entering their 100th season with Olympic dreams and a legacy that continues to inspire and entertain fans around the world. With their unique brand of basketball and commitment to fan interaction, they are sure to continue to thrive in the years to come.
FAQs
Q: When does the Harlem Globetrotters 100 Year Tour start?
A: The tour kicks off on Sunday, Dec. 14, in New York City.
Q: How can I purchase tickets for the centennial season?
A: Tickets are available for purchase at HarlemGlobetrotters.com.
Q: What can I expect from a Globetrotters game?
A: Expect fan interaction, including the fifth quarter where you can take selfies and get autographs from the players.
Q: Who are some of the legendary players that have played for the Globetrotters?
A: Some of the legendary players include Meadowlark Lemon, Curly Neal, Wilt Chamberlain, Big Easy, Handles Franklin, and Sweet Lou Dunbar.
Q: Do the Globetrotters have Olympic dreams?
A: Yes, the Globetrotters would love to participate in the Olympics and believe they would be a great addition to the Games.
