http://www.si.com/nba/2015/12/28/harlem-globetrotters-meadowlark-lemon-dies-83 Harlem Globetrotters legend Meadowlark Lemon dies at 83 BY SI WIREPosted:Mon Dec. 28, 2015 Harlem Globetrotters legend Meadowlark Lemon died on Sunday at 83, The New York Times first reported. His death was confirmed by his wife, Cynthia Lemon. Arguably the most famous Globetrotter in the almost 90-year history of the team, Lemon was known for entertaining crowds with his basketball skills—half-court hook shots and behind-the-back passes—along with his sense of humor. Lemon joined the Globetrotters in 1954, becoming known as the “Clown Prince” during his 22 years with the team. While known for their on-court antics, the Globetrotters made a difference in the history of the sport when they beat the NBA powerhouse Minneapolis Lakers 61–59 in 1948. That game is widely seen as the catalyst for the signing of the NBA’s first black player, Nat "Sweetwater" Clifton, in 1950. The Globetrotters have long been known as ambassadors for both the United States and the game of basketball, playing exhibition games in 120 countries. Born and raised in Wilmington, N.C., Lemon was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2003.
Was actually just coming here to post this, saw it this morning . Saw him play probably half a dozen times with the Globetrotters at the Garden in the 70's, brings back great memories from my childhood. The bucket of confetti routine would never get old.
I went to wikipedia to see if I could find out how and why he picked up the name Meadowlark. Found a few interesting tidbits: LINK Lemon made his first basketball hoop out of an onion sack and coat hanger, using an empty Carnation milk can to sink his first 2-point hoop. He didn't make the Globetrotters on his first try. He had TEN children: Richard, George, Beverly, Donna, Robin, Jonathan, Jamison, Angela, Crystal and Caleb. In 1978, his first wife, Willye, stabbed him with a steak knife in 1978. Anyway..... Goodnight, Clown Prince. Thanks for all the laughs. And thanks especially for making it okay to poke fun at fat people.
