Harlem Globetrotters Sign with IMG

 The World-Famous Harlem Globetrotters team – originators of basketball style, captured by dynamic athletes with unmatched skills – has signed with licensing agency, IMG, in anticipation of the brand’s 100th anniversary milestone in 2026. 

“I can’t count the number of ‘firsts’ that have marked the history of the Harlem Globetrotters, not least of which their dazzling style of play, which anticipated by many years the dynamism, we see from the best players in the modern NBA,” says Bruno Maglione, president, licensing, IMG. “From the largest attendance ever at a basketball game, to iconic players like Wilt Chamberlain, to being the only team ever admitted to the Basketball Hall of Fame, the richness of their legacy is unparalleled and more relevant than ever. We will be looking both forward and back as we celebrate the story of this legendary franchise with products and brand partners.”   

The Harlem Globetrotters occupy a unique space in the American sports and entertainment landscape, as well as in the history of African-American integration into mainstream U.S. professional sports. By the time the NBA began signing Black players in 1950, the Globetrotters had been touring in the U.S. for some 25 years. Notably, in 1948 and 1949 the Globetrotters stunned the public by beating the then-world-champion Minneapolis Lakers in both years in real games, proving that along with their crowd-pleasing theatrics, they were seriously talented players who could compete and prevail over the best teams in the world.  

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“The Harlem Globetrotters continue to lead and redefine global basketball culture,” says Keith Dawkins, president, Harlem Globetrotters and Herschend Entertainment Studios. “With their athleticism, exceptional skills, unique brand of humor and their ability to connect with cultures around the globe they’ve inspired millions and ushered in an irreplicable brand of sports entertainment that’s beloved by all. As we approach our 100 year anniversary in 2026, our partnership with IMG will be instrumental in deepening our connection with fans, new and old, around the world.” 

Recognized by the United Nations in 1951 as “ambassadors of extraordinary goodwill,” the Harlem Globetrotters today tour the world playing over 200 games domestically throughout North America and over 150 games internationally throughout continents, including Asia, the Americas, Europe, Australia and more.  

Under the new agreement, IMG will draw inspiration from the team’s history and iconic brand identity to develop a range of products and experiences from toys, collectibles and memorabilia, to publishing and video games. IMG will also be seeking an official outfitter and footwear partner to carry the Harlem Globetrotters into their next century.