The Harlem Globetrotters, the legendary basketball entertainers, brought their signature blend of athleticism, showmanship, and community engagement to Bryn Mawr Elementary School in Minnesota during their Great Assist tour, delighting students and staff alike. The visit was part of the team’s ongoing mission to inspire and entertain audiences of all ages.
Founded in 1926, the Harlem Globetrotters have long been more than just a basketball team. They played a crucial role in breaking racial barriers in professional sports, including paving the way for the integration of the NBA.
“We broke the color barrier in the game of basketball in 1950,” player Zeus McClurken said during the event. The first African American male to play with an all-white pro team was Nat ‘Sweetwater’ Clifton, and he was a former Harlem Globetrotter.”
During their visit, the Globetrotters engaged students in interactive games, showcasing their incredible ball-handling skills and high energy tricks. The children had the opportunity to participate in drills, learn new moves, and even challenge the players in friendly competitions.
One of the highlights of the event was when McClurken demonstrated his favorite trick. When asked what his favorite was, he replied, “See, that’s not a question I can answer. You gotta see it. It’s called a brain hand spin.” The students cheered as the mesmerizing trick left them in awe.
In addition to the dazzling displays, the players shared personal stories and insights about their careers. Asked about the most unforgettable place he had traveled to, one player recalled, “I would say Uzbekistan. I went to Uzbekistan with TNT. It was an amazing experience just going to a city that I had never heard about before.”
Another Globetrotter joining McClurken was TNT Lister, who emphasized the importance of perseverance and resilience. “You have to believe in yourself, even when others doubt you. We travel the world meeting kids from all walks of life, and our message is always the same — dream big and work hard.”Beyond the court, the Harlem Globetrotters have served as cultural ambassadors, showcasing Black excellence and perseverance. For nearly a century, they have uplifted communities, reminding young athletes that sports can be a powerful force for change.
“Representation matters. When kids see us doing what we do, they realize that they too can reach for greatness,” Lister explained. Their performances have historically provided a sense of joy and pride in Black communities, particularly during times when opportunities were scarce. The Globetrotters’ legacy is a testament to overcoming adversity and using sports as a vehicle for social progress.
As the Harlem Globetrotters continue their 2024 World Tour Presented By Jersey Mike’s Subs, they carry with them the spirit of teamwork and empowerment, inspiring others to pursue greatness both on and off the court. Through the Globetrotters’ Goodwill Ambassador Initiative, they aim to drive change and impact in crucial areas such as health and wellness, education, and community empowerment.
The Great Assist Tour combines basketball with recognition and celebration for everyday heroes who make a difference by giving “great assists” to others. By shining a spotlight on these remarkable individuals, the Harlem Globetrotters remind us that greatness is not only defined by individual accomplishments but by the collective efforts of a community working together towards a common goal.
As the event at Bryn Mawr elementary came to a close, the Globetrotters left behind not only memories of laughter and excitement but also a powerful message of perseverance, unity, and the joy of the game. With nearly a century of history behind them, the Harlem Globetrotters continue to inspire and entertain, proving that basketball is more than a sport — it’s a way to bring people together.
