The Harlem Globetrotters are returning to network TV for the first time in more than 40 years.
"Many of us grew up watching and admiring the Globetrotters," said Frank Biancuzzo, president of Hearst Media Production Group, which is partnering with the team to produce the show."They are magicians on the basketball court and true role models in the community. We'll bring that compassion, energy and excitement to the new weekly series."
Each episode will focus on team members' inspirations and interests, including space exploration with NASA, financial responsibility and literacy, urban farming, and female empowerment. The move back to television is a way for the Harlem Globetrotters to expand their reach with a new generation of fans, said Keith Dawkins, president of the Harlem Globetrotters.Craig Robinson will host"Harlem Globetrotters: Play it Forward" a new 30-minute weekly show airing on NBC.
Previously, the Harlem Globetrotters appeared in a Saturday morning cartoon produced by Hanna-Barbera and CBS, which featured animated versions of players from the basketball team. The show aired from 1970 to 1971 and followed a weekly formula where the team would travel to try and help settle local issues over a basketball game.