The Harlem Globetrotters want a seat at the NBA table.
The Globetrotters wrote an open letter to Adam Silver with a request that they become an official NBA franchise.
Via the Harlem Globetrotters' official website:
Based on what we've already proven, we can field a team of talent on par with the pros of today, and we want the chance to do that. As a world renowned and legendary professional basketball team, we petition Commissioner Adam Silver, the NBA governors and the powers that be to grant The Original Harlem Globetrotters an NBA franchise. Not now, but right now!
The Globetrotters want credit for helping the NBA get started and for growing the league to what it has become today. The team was founded in 1926 and has racked up over 27,000 wins in its lengthy history. Players such as Wilt Chamberlain, Connie Hawkins and Nat Clifton got their starts with the Globetrotters, with Chamberlain even getting his No. 13 jersey retired.
The Harlem Globetrotters released this follow-up statement to their letter:
Our official statement on yesterday's letter to the @NBA #DearNBA #SpreadGame pic.twitter.com/pbc2fOchDi
— Harlem Globetrotters (@Globies) June 22, 2021
The NBA has been mulling expansion for a while now. While it's unclear just when it is going to happen, it seems inevitable. The Harlem Globetrotters want in on these expansion plans. While actually becoming an NBA team seems like a long shot, perhaps the league will figure out a way to honor them properly.
Follow Us
Subscribe