NBRPA Partners with Harlem Globetrotters to Celebrate 100 Years of Global Basketball Legacy
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CHICAGO - illiNews -- The National Basketball Retired Players Association (NBRPA) today announced a historic partnership with the Harlem Globetrotters, honoring 100 years of basketball excellence, community impact, and cultural influence. This collaboration marks a powerful moment of unity between two storied basketball institutions committed to supporting former players and uplifting future generations. The Globetrotters Centennial season will begin with a special event at Madison Square Garden on Sunday, December 14.

This milestone partnership — led by Charles "Choo" Smith, Chairman of the NBRPA, Keith Dawkins, President of the Harlem Globetrotters and Herschend Entertainment Studios, and Antonio Davis, President & CEO of the NBRPA — embodies the enduring spirit of teamwork, joy, and service that has defined the Globetrotter legacy for a century.

"Being part of the Harlem Globetrotter family taught me the power of connection," said Charles "Choo" Smith, NBRPA Chairman. "This partnership continues that legacy — bringing together generations of players to serve and inspire. It's about unity, honoring where basketball has taken us, and using our collective platform to impact the next generation."

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Antonio Davis, President & CEO of the NBRPA, added: "The Harlem Globetrotters have been cultural ambassadors and pioneers for basketball around the world. Partnering with them during their 100th anniversary is both an honor and a responsibility — one that reflects our shared mission to uplift, empower, and unite former players across every league."

Keith Dawkins, President of the Harlem Globetrotters and Herschend Entertainment Studios, echoed this sentiment: "Our Centennial season brings about the opportunity to expand our relationships across the global sport of basketball. With the NBRPA, there's not only a shared history and commitment to our athletes but also for about where we are going in the future. From community events to special projects to our massive global tour, we are looking forward to expanding the reach, and power, of our collective efforts to garner larger audiences around the world."

The partnership between the two organizations symbolizes the alignment of two visionary leaders and CEOs united by a purpose-driven commitment to amplify basketball's influence far beyond the court.

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Through this collaboration, the NBRPA and Harlem Globetrotters will launch a yearlong celebration highlighting the Globetrotters' 100-year legacy, including:

• National Events & Appearances: Joint appearances at community and league events featuring former Globetrotters and other Legends of Basketball.
• Storytelling & Content Series: Digital and social campaigns celebrating Globetrotter alumni and the organization's trailblazing role in sports and entertainment.
• Legends Care Initiatives: Programs designed to support former Globetrotter players with resources in health, education, and career development.
• Youth Engagement & Clinics: Basketball clinics, mentorship opportunities, and educational activations

http://harlemglobetrotters.com