Harlem Globetrotters' 100-Year Legacy Continues in Fargo

The iconic basketball team has been entertaining North Dakota crowds since 1931, with a history of beating local squads and bringing laughter to the court.

Feb. 26, 2026 at 12:53am

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The Harlem Globetrotters, celebrating their 100th anniversary this year, have been a fixture in Fargo, North Dakota since 1931, often playing exhibition games against local teams and delighting crowds with their comedic basketball routines. The team's promoter, Abe Saperstein, recognized early on that dominance alone wouldn't sustain crowds, so he incorporated comedy and entertainment into the Globetrotters' act, making them a must-see attraction across the region for nearly a century.

Why it matters

The Harlem Globetrotters' long history in Fargo reflects the team's enduring popularity and cultural significance, as they've adapted their act over the decades to remain a top draw for sports fans. Their ability to blend athleticism, showmanship, and community engagement has allowed the Globetrotters to thrive in smaller markets like Fargo, where they've built a loyal following over generations.

The details

The Globetrotters first played in Fargo in 1931 and have returned every year since, often facing off against local all-star squads made up of former players from North Dakota State University and the University of North Dakota. In the 1930s, the Globetrotters even lost two out of three games to a North Dakota All-Stars team, proving the local talent could sometimes hold their own. Over the years, the Globetrotters' act has evolved, incorporating more comedy and entertainment elements, such as unicyclists, baton twirlers, and even the occasional appearance by a female player.

  • The Harlem Globetrotters first played in Fargo in 1931.
  • In the 1930s, the Globetrotters played a three-game series against a North Dakota All-Stars squad made up of former NDAC (now NDSU) and UND standouts.
  • In February 1958, 4,500 fans packed Concordia's auditorium to see the Globetrotters take on the House of David team.
  • In 1985, Lynette Woodard became the first woman to join the Harlem Globetrotters roster.
  • The Globetrotters are celebrating their 100th anniversary this year (2026).

The players

Abe Saperstein

The promoter who bought the Harlem Globetrotters in 1927 and incorporated comedy and entertainment into the team's act, helping to make them a top attraction across the country.

Reece "Goose" Tatum

A Harlem Globetrotters player credited with helping to weave comedy into the team's routines.

Lynette Woodard

The first woman to join the Harlem Globetrotters roster in 1985, helping to expand the team's audience and act.

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What they’re saying

“The Harlem Globetrotters are absolutely amazing, hilarious, and are so great entertaining us fans with laughter.”

— Justin Terjesen

“Harper and Ice (player Brittany "Ice" Hrynko) had bonded during the meet and greet before the game. During the game, Ice invited Harper to sit courtside with her.”

— Marissa Aldeen

What’s next

The Harlem Globetrotters are expected to return to Fargo later this year as part of their 100th anniversary tour, with tickets likely to sell out quickly as they have for decades.

The takeaway

The Harlem Globetrotters' enduring popularity in Fargo, North Dakota, over the past century is a testament to the team's ability to adapt and entertain, blending athletic prowess with comedic showmanship. Their commitment to engaging with local communities has helped the Globetrotters maintain their status as a must-see attraction, even as the sport of basketball and the entertainment landscape have evolved around them.