NASHVILLE - The Tennessee state House of Representatives will present House Resolution No. 96 in the state Legislature honoring 11 former Tennessee State Tigers who went on to play for the world famous Harlem Globetrotters. The resolution was written by Rep. Brenda Gilmore and will be presented on Friday, June, 5th at 2 p.m.
The proclamation presentation will take place in the House Chambers located on the second floor of the State Capitol located at 600 Charlotte Ave.
Among those players were the late Josh Grider, Clarence Wilson, Bobby Hunter, Mel Davis and Henry Kean. One of the most unique 'Trotters was TSU alumnus Boyd Buie, who had one arm. Others to be honored are Joe Buckhalter, Tommy Gibson, Willis Thomas, Ben Jackson and Ernest Jones.
Dr. John Kline, an ex-Harlem Globetrotter and president of the Black Legends of Professional Basketball Foundation will also be in attendance with invited family members and friends of the pioneers.
Recently the 106th General Assembly recognized the Harlem Globetrotters and the 11 former players who played with the team. These players played at a time when acceptance in the National Basketball Association was prohibited and the Globetrotters provided a place for them to utilize their skills and experience.