Over this past weekend, we were blessed to be able to continue with our family tradition of attending the Harlem Globetrotters game in January. In fact, this was our sixth time attending the game since 2019.
However, this year was different in many ways. Not only did we share this experience with our daughter for the first time, creating new memories and marking a new chapter in our tradition; but there were new tricks and challenges introduced this year, and the weather was mild with no snow in the forecast as it has been in years prior.
With all of this in mind, keep reading for a glimpse into our experience of the 2025 Harlem Globetrotters World Tour Game at the State Farm Center in Champaign, Illinois.
Save 20% Off Harlem Globetrotter Tickets for any game using the code USFAM and view the Harlem Globetrotters World Tour Schedule here.
The Original Harlem Globetrotters
For starters, if you are unfamiliar with the original Harlem Globetrotters, I encourage you to browse through the Harlem Globetrotters website. They are described as the world’s basketball team – touring over 400+ cities in 25+ countries.
Each Globetrotters game features some of the best athletes on the planet, unmatched fan interaction, incredible ball handling wizardry, the famous HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS 4 POINTS® SHOT, rim-rattling dunks, and side-splitting comedy. And, I can definitely agree based on the numerous times that we have attended over the years.
We love seeing the rivalry between the Harlem Globetrotters and the Generals. The Generals and Globetrotters have played each other in many exhibition games over the years, with the Globetrotters winning almost every game.
Although we are there to see the Harlem Globetrotters, it’s hard not to cheer and clap for the Generals because they play such an amazing game of basketball, as well.
Feel free to check out my @JustBrennonBlog TikTok for the video!
Personal Harlem Globetrotter Highlights
Speaking of the game, this year’s 2025 event stood out for its fresh challenges and impressive tricks. I don’t recall if the various Big Chain Challenges were a part of the entertainment last year or not, but I enjoyed them and believe that they added an exciting dynamic to the performance, although it seemed to slightly reduce the stage time for mascots Big G and Globie. However, I could be wrong.
Another remarkable moment in the game was watching Dazzle from Poland flawlessly spin two basketballs simultaneously — a truly awe-inspiring display of skill.
Lastly, I greatly appreciated the vibrant energy that Hammer and Wham brought to the experience. Their commentary kept the crowd engaged, maintaining a lively atmosphere throughout the game. Additionally, Hot Shot’s comedic dancing provided a lighthearted element that made the event all the more memorable.
While these are just a few of the players and performances that stood out to me, all of the players were amazing. You can view the full 2025 Harlem Globetrotters roster online.
Save 20% Off Harlem Globetrotter Tickets for any game using the code USFAM and view the Harlem Globetrotters World Tour Schedule here.
Final Thoughts
As the game came to an end, the audience was encouraged to come down for autographs. In the past, we have most certainly done this, but this year, we decided the skip the autographs simply because my daughter is so small.
As we exited the arena, I appreciated that for the first time, it was not snowing on the day of the event. In years past, we bundled up a bit more heavily to navigate the snowy weather conditions.
Save 20% Off Harlem Globetrotter Tickets for any game using the code USFAM and view the Harlem Globetrotters World Tour Schedule here.
This post is in partnership with US Family Guide.
