Harlem Globetrotters International, Inc.
One day a year, central Ohioans have a chance to see fancy ball handling, full-court shots and the hapless Washington Generals’ latest attempt to break their monumental losing streak.
This year, that day will be Dec. 29, when the Harlem Globetrotters play a doubleheader at the Schottenstein Center against their longtime rivals.
“They’re the last team to actually beat us, and that was back in 1971,” says Alex “Moose” Weekes, forward for the Globetrotters. “I know they’re trying to beef up their line-up with some sharp shooters. Our goal is to make them look like the same old Generals you all remember and mop the floor with them, in typical Globetrotter fashion.”
While the competition is real, the show remains fun, and fans can expect some old-fashioned favorite antics from the animated athletes.
“Ant,” “Hi-Lite,” “Handles,” “Big Easy” and more will hit the floor with hilarious and spectacular displays of showmanship and talent.
“Each teammate has their own thing and ways of connecting with the fans,” Weekes says. “Aside from my tenacity and spectacular dunks, I love to keep my competitive essence. I always hustle, run from end to end. You may see me flipping my hair and having fun with the people. You have just got to get loose with the Moose.”
Between stunning displays of professional passing and unbelievable dunks, the team plays a very fundamentally sound game of basketball.
One game-changer the Globetrotters have added to the sport is the four-point shot.
“Something you don’t see in the NBA is that shot,” Weekes says. “We started it five years ago, and it’s a great display of long-range shooting. It’s 35 feet away from the basket; that’s 12 feet back from the NBA three-point line. We have athleticism and that Globetrotter magic that incorporates our humor and skills. As a fan, you never know what to expect. Just make sure you hold your food tight and bring a raincoat.”
The teams look to highlight a military member, either past or present, at each game of the 2014-2015 Washington Generals Revenge Tour.
“This is a way for us to honor active, wounded, present and former military people who give their lives for our freedoms,” Weekes says. “We want to welcome those who are coming home and wish a safe journey to those on their way out. We will also play a portion of the third quarter with a special camouflage ball.”
Two games means double the playing time for Weekes and company, but that won’t stop them from giving it their all when they hit the court.
“Your body may not be feeling great, but when the lights come, the smoke clears and you see the fans, you don’t mind it anymore,” Weekes says. “We train for this. As long as the fans are in the stands, we’ll be out there doing it.”
Weekes has been with the team for three years. His Globetrotter career began after he played in a game versus a former Globetrotter. Weekes was awarded MVP after the matchup and was put in contact with the notorious ballers.
“I always wanted to play pro basketball, and the Globetrotters were actually my first basketball experience,” he says. “I remember seeing them and thinking, ‘This can’t be real.’ My mom played ball in high school, as well as my dad. I just knew that the relationship would happen. Joining the team was best decision I’ve made in my life.”
Inspired by the likes of Fred “Curley” Neal and Meadow “Meadowlark” Lemon, the forward is known for his rebounding ability and blocking of shots, but Weekes’ most notable characteristic is a rather cosmetic one.
“It’s a love-hate relationship with this hair,” he says. “If we get along, it takes 15 minutes to get ready, maybe only 10. But if we’re at odds, it could take an hour to get it just right.”
Weekes invites fans, both young and old, to the show.
“We may not be the same team that you remember, but we’re keeping the tradition alive,” he says. “We’re still the innovators of the game. If you don’t have kids, come out – even big kids want to have fun. If you remember your parents taking you, do the same for your kids. You’ll never forget it.”
For those looking to enter a hometown hero at either game, or just seeking tickets, visit www.harlemglobetrotters.com.
Stephan Reed is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at gbishop@cityscenemediagroup.com.
