A first-ever in sports residency is happening exclusively at American Dream Meadowlands in East Rutherford in partnership with the Harlem Globetrotters from Friday, Aug. 16 through Sunday, Aug. 25.
The Globetrotter stars will dribble, spin, slam, and dunk as they aim to surpass their rivals, the Washington Generals in 16 live games. Trick shots and expert ball-handling skills, will combine with big laughs and lots of opportunities for pre-game, post-game and in-game fan engagement.
Aside from game tickets, fans can purchase Premium Upgrades for exclusive access to Globetrotter Players. The 10-day residency at American Dream this summer will be played on The Rink and came about following the success of The Throne basketball tournament, a national high school basketball tournament hosted by the National Basketball Players Association, held there in March.
See also: American Dream Will Host National High School Basketball Tournament
The world-famous American exhibition basketball team has been around for almost a century and typically holds 400 events worldwide between December and May.
“The Harlem Globetrotters have a long and storied history of ‘firsts’ in its almost 100 years of existence and we continue that tradition by partnering with American Dream; making history by creating the first-ever sports residency,” said Keith Dawkins, President of the Harlem Globetrotters and Herschend Entertainment Studios.
Bryan Gaus, senior vice president and general manager of American Dream, echoed Dawkins’ sentiments, stating that the Globetrotters, like American Dream, embody community, entertainment, and fun, making them perfect partners for this groundbreaking residency.
“The Harlem Globetrotters, just like American Dream, embody community, entertainment, and fun, making us the perfect partners for this groundbreaking residency,” said Bryan Gaus, American Dream senior vice president and general manager.
“Our property continues to set the standard as a unique sports and events destination while also complementing MetLife Stadium’s extensive list of events next door. Now, one of the most iconic sports franchises will call American Dream home,” Gaus added.
Here is what is known so far:
- Globetrotter kids skill clinic: Basketball fans of all ages can train like a Globetrotter, running drills, learning tricks and taking part in the team’s famous warmup routine, the Magic Circle.
- Pre-game magic pass: Families can join the Globetrotters and the Generals on the court before the game to shoot hoops and get player autographs and photos.
- Globetrotter “5th quarter” meet-and-greet: All fans are invited down to the court for 30 minutes after the game to get autographs from their favorite Globetrotter players.
- Exclusive merchandise: Attendees can get a variety of Globetrotters-branded t-shirts, sweatshirts, basketballs, programs and other accessories.