Harlem Globetrotters

The Harlem Globetrotters are a basketball team that combines great skills with show elements to entertain audiences worldwide. As their name suggests, the Globetrotters - started up in Chicago in 1926 - have travelled the world to showcase their artistry, playing more than 20,000 games in 118 countries.

In the early years of the NBA when segregation still existed, the all-black Globetrotters who did not pertain to any particular league, played against the NBA champion Minneapolis Lakers with George Mikan. They defeated the Lakers twice (in 1948 and 1949). The team's most famous member was Wilt Chamberlain who joined the Trotters for one year in 1958.

Gradually including more and more show elements and comic stunts into their performances, the Globetrotters became increasingly known for entertainment rather than pure sports. While occasionally playing "real" games against tough competition, the Globetrotters claim to have won more than 22,000 games overall - as compared to about 350 losses.

Created by: Ole Last edited by: Berlin