Monthly Gathering—February 2005
The Harlem Globetrotters, an Insider’s View
Since 1927, the Harlem Globetrotters have toured continually, showcasing the skills of African-American basketball players and developing an entertaining blend of athletics and comedy. In the process, they have helped to introduce basketball throughout the world, have inspired athletes of all races, and have laid the ground work for the freewheeling “showtime” style of basketball that has contributed to the growth of basketball’s popularity. The team has played over 20,000 games in more than 100 countries around the world.
Dr. John “Jumpin’ Johnny” Kline was a standout basketball leader on and off the court. While a member of the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters, Kline traveled throughout the world and helped the team win the “World Series of Basketball” against the College All-Americans, and to post their first undefeated season with 441 wins.
Originally from Detroit, Kline was a basketball All-American, Wayne State University Athlete of the Year, Most Valuable Player in the first Motor City Tournament and a finalist in the United States Olympic trials for track before he joined the Globetrotters. After ending his Globetrotter career, Kline went back to Wayne State University and earned a doctorate in history and philosophy of education. In 1996 he founded The Black Legends of Basketball, an organization that recognizes pioneers in the game of basketball. He received special recognition and his ring from the organization he founded during a special “Legends” ceremony, on February 3, 2002, at The Palace of Auburn Hills.
Join us on Saturday, February 19 to hear Kline’s story of life on and off the court. Whether or not you’re interested in sports, you won’t want to miss this insider’s view of sports as a profession and the challenges of adjusting to life in “the real world” afterward.
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