Harlem Globetrotters show local boys the best moves
ABOUT 40 boys could not wait to step on to the basketball court, dribble the ball, shoot hoops and take selfies with two of the Harlem Globetrotters at Wynberg Boys’ High School yesterday.
Slick and Sweet J visited the school in the afternoon to promote their upcoming South African tour, from July 1-10, in Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg. Further details and venues will be announced soon.
Awesome trick shots and basketball at the highest level can be seen in a total of nine tour games. The last time the team came to South Africa was in 1996 to celebrate Nelson Mandela’s 80th birthday.
“Generally you never have the chance to talk to someone from the US, even less an NBA player. Basketball is not really big here, so this is exciting. We are privileged that they shared their skills with us today,” said 16-year-old Farai Gwanyanya, captain of the school’s basketball team.
Together with five teammates, he had the chance to perform some tricks with the pros: through each leg, around the waist, half round the back, then a pass with the lower back.
Since 1926, the exhibition basketball team has been playing both competitive and exhibition games.
Players not only showcase their sporting talent, but act as ambassadors as they travel around the world.
The 6 foot 6-inch (2m) tall Slick told youngsters that it was his dream to play a one-onone with basketball legend Michael Jordan.
“It is important that you believe in yourself. Support from family, teachers and coaches is very important, but it has to start with you,” the Harlem Globetrotter said. He grew up in the Bronx, one of five boroughs in New York City. Slick’s signature move is the two-ball spin.
His female teammate Sweet J intends to encourage young girls. “Separate yourself from being a girl. You do not want to be the best girl, but the best at sports or arts. Like me, I want to be the best shooter out there, even though I am the only woman on the court,” the No 7 said.
The two American athletes are in South Africa for the first time. “We went to the top of Table Mountain – that was really neat. I would also like to see Robben Island,” Sweet J said.
Tomorrow, the two Harlem Globetrotters will present their fascinating skills in Durban.