On a frigid night in Fargo, North Dakota, on February 1969, a unique sporting event unfolded as local college teams from North Dakota State University (NDSU) and the University of North Dakota (UND) faced off against the legendary Harlem Globetrotters. This exhibition match drew attention not only for its thrilling basketball but also for the historical significance of the teams involved.
Historic Exhibition in Fargo
Despite a snowstorm that hit the area, approximately 600 fans braved the cold outside the Civic Memorial Auditorium, hoping to witness the Globetrotters’ signature mix of athleticism and entertainment. Inside, 3,357 spectators filled the venue, having purchased tickets ranging from $1.50 to $3. The Globetrotters showcased their talent in a light-hearted game, ultimately defeating the local players by a score of 94–79.
The Harlem Globetrotters, celebrating their 100th anniversary this year, have been a beloved attraction for generations. The Forum reported in 1953 that the team had consistently drawn crowds in Fargo, a sentiment echoed over the decades. The roots of this iconic team trace back to 1926 on Chicago’s South Side, where a group of players from Wendell Phillips High School formed the Savoy Big Five, later becoming the Harlem Globetrotters under promoter Abe Saperstein.
The Globetrotters’ Legacy
Initially, the Globetrotters were a serious competitive squad, winning the World Professional Basketball Tournament in 1940. Their historic victory over the Minneapolis Lakers in 1948 marked a pivotal moment in basketball history, occurring during an era when the sport was segregated. The Globetrotters paved the way for inclusivity in professional sports with significant milestones, including Chuck Cooper becoming the first Black player drafted into the NBA in 1950.
Saperstein recognized that while winning was crucial, entertainment was essential to keep fans engaged. This led to the integration of comedy and theatrics into their performances, often credited to player Reece “Goose” Tatum. Audiences enjoyed buckets of confetti, trick shots, and elaborate dribbling displays, all set to the tune of “Sweet Georgia Brown.” Saperstein’s efforts transformed the Globetrotters into a global phenomenon, where basketball became as much about showmanship as it was about sport.
Fargo-Moorhead has a long-standing connection with the Globetrotters, with their first performance in the region taking place in 1931. This relationship has continued uninterrupted, as noted by sportswriter Eugene Fitzgerald in 1966. The Globetrotters often played against local teams, including a memorable three-game series against a North Dakota All-Stars squad that included players from NDSU and UND.
As the years progressed, the Globetrotters expanded their reach, performing in 69 countries and entertaining audiences worldwide. Their appearances became larger events, with venues like the Fargodome and Scheels Arena hosting thousands of fans. The inclusion of unique halftime shows featuring various performers added to the excitement of the game.
The Globetrotters have continued to innovate, with Lynette Woodard making history in 1985 as the first woman to join the team. This shift allowed the organization to engage a broader audience and further diversify their performances.
Local fans have remained loyal throughout the years. For instance, Marissa Aldeen of Moorhead recalls a special experience in 2020 when her daughter was invited to sit courtside during a game. “It was super cool!” she said, reflecting the magic the Globetrotters continue to create.
As ticket prices have risen, with most now ranging from $20 to $100, the anticipation and excitement surrounding their performances have remained consistent. Nearly a century after their inception, the Harlem Globetrotters continue to captivate audiences with their unique blend of basketball and entertainment, proving that the spirit of community and celebration in sports transcends generations.
On that cold February night in 1969, Fargo fans were reminded of a simple yet profound lesson: when the Harlem Globetrotters come to town, it’s essential to arrive early to secure a spot for an unforgettable experience.
