The Harlem Globetrotters – famous for fusing sport and entertainment – have signed with IMG to further develop the brand in anticipation of its 100th anniversary milestone in 2026.
Under the new deal, IMG will draw inspiration from the legendary team’s history and iconic brand identity to develop a wide range of products and experiences from toys, collectibles and memorabilia, to publishing and video games.
Equally, the agency will be seeking an official outfitter and footwear partner to carry the Harlem Globetrotters into the next century.
“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,” said Bruno Maglione, president of IMG’s licensing business. “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.”
Keith Dawkins, president, Harlem Globetrotters and Herschend Entertainment Studios, continued: “The Harlem Globetrotters continue to lead and redefine global basketball culture. 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.”
The Harlem Globetrotters occupy a unique and special space in the American sports and entertainment landscape, as well as in the history of African-American integration into mainstream US professional sports. By the time the NBA began signing Black players in 1950, the Globetrotters had been touring in the US 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.
Want to read more news like this? Simply sign up to our daily digest by clicking here. You can also follow @LicensingSource on Twitter and @licensing_source on Instagram.
