Sports · Basketball · 1 hr ago
Harlem Globetrotters receive FIBA Order of Merit
FIBA has given the Harlem Globetrotters its Order of Merit, recognizing the team’s contribution to basketball.
The ceremony took place at the Patrick Baumann House of Basketball in Switzerland.
Founded in Chicago in 1926, the Globetrotters became known for combining basketball with entertainment.
They have performed for millions of people in more than 120 countries and territories, helping introduce the game to audiences around the world.
The team also helped break barriers, including when Lynette Woodard became its first woman player in 1985.
The award recognizes a legacy that FIBA says extends beyond entertainment to inspiring people and connecting communities through sport.
The Globetrotters presented a gift to FIBA Honorary President Hamane Niang during a show in Lausanne to thank FIBA for the honor.
FIBA presented the Harlem Globetrotters with its Order of Merit for their contribution to basketball’s global growth and promotion.
The ceremony took place at the Patrick Baumann House of Basketball in Switzerland.
The award recognizes the team’s century-long influence, including inspiring players and fans and helping bring basketball to new audiences.
Founded in Chicago in 1926, the Globetrotters have performed for millions of spectators in more than 120 countries and territories.
- Who
- The Harlem Globetrotters received the award from FIBA.
- What
- FIBA presented the team with its Order of Merit for its contribution to basketball.
- When
- Not stated.
- Where
- The Patrick Baumann House of Basketball in Switzerland.
- Why
- FIBA recognized the Globetrotters’ role in growing and promoting basketball worldwide.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Abe Saperstein founded the Harlem Globetrotters in Chicago.
Lynette Woodard became the first woman to join the team.
FIBA presented the Harlem Globetrotters with the Order of Merit at the Patrick Baumann House of Basketball in Switzerland.
During halftime of their show in Lausanne, the Globetrotters presented a gift to FIBA Honorary President Hamane Niang.
- Award
- FIBA Order of Merit
- Founded
- Chicago, 1926
- International reach
- More than 120 countries and territories
- First woman on team
- Lynette Woodard, 1985
- Award recipient representative
- Keith Dawkins, Harlem Globetrotters & Herschend Entertainment Studios President
What people are saying
The Harlem Globetrotters are more than basketball. They are more than a tour, more than spinning balls, trick shots, or dunks. They have inspired the world to celebrate what it is to be human. 100 years and counting. I believe they are just getting started,
For a century, the Harlem Globetrotters have done more than entertain. They have inspired dreams, broken barriers, transcended borders, and helped grow our game worldwide. Their impact extends far beyond the court, making them truly deserving recipients of the FIBA Order of Merit,











