Harlem Globetrotters plan tour stops in Cedar Rapids, Dubuque for 100th anniversary tour

Relatively few organizations make it to 100 years. But soon, the “originators of basketball style” will demonstrate to Iowa why they’re still going strong.

Since 1926, the Harlem Globetrotters have showcased their iconic brand of dynamic athleticism and unique skills to tens of millions of people in 124 countries and territories across six continents.

Early next year, they’ll bring them back to Cedar Rapids and Dubuque with a few new surprises for their 100th anniversary, including the unveiling of the team’s limited edition jersey and Spalding basketball.

To Globetrotters like Cherelle “Torch” George and Rochell “Wham” Middleton, the anniversary is a legacy worth cherishing.

“It means that the history is rich, the legacy is strong. Globetrotters are known for creating memories on and off the court,” George told The Gazette. “We’re ambassadors of goodwill. So to celebrate 100 years and be on the shoulders of pioneers and barrier breakers, it means the world to every player here that’s currently on the roster.

“Fans can expect the unexpected.”

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Amid the global turmoil of today’s world, being an ambassador of goodwill takes on renewed importance.

“We don’t only make people smile on the court. We do a lot of community work off the court,” said Middleton, who has toured with the Globetrotters for seven seasons across 36 countries. “My favorite thing to do is (children’s) hospital visits. When we go in there and just bring some light, their parents will always say ‘they haven’t been this happy in a long time.’”

In an era when many are more engrossed with virtual reality than what is happening right in front of them, the Globetrotters rely on a timeless form of entertainment that captivates fans, no matter how tech savvy they are.

Their “fifth quarter,” which allows fans to take selfies with their favorite players after the game, is just one example of the sport franchise built specifically to engage fans.

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“I think what makes the Harlem Globetrotters special is that we’re able to blend that athleticism, the showmanship, the charisma, with entertainment,” said George, an alum of Iowa Western Community College. “There’s no other professional sports team where you’re going to get that, you’re not going to get that fan interaction.”

Middleton said spectators can expect the usual comedy antics, high-flying slam dunks, long distance shots and trick shots — plus, a few surprises for its 100th anniversary he’s keeping mum.

“You never know what’s gonna happen at a live game,” George said. “They may pull somebody out of a crowd, they start dancing, borrow your popcorn. Cedar Rapids may see one thing, Council Bluffs may see something different.

“But you know you’re going to leave with memories, you’re going to have a good time.”

Comments: Features reporter Elijah Decious can be reached at (319) 398-8340 or elijah.decious@thegazette.com.