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Harlem Globetrotters ask NBA to become league’s 31st franchise

By NBC Sports Washington Staff

Harlem Globetrotters ask NBA to become league's 31st franchise originally appeared on NBC Sports Washington

The Harlem Globetrotters sent a letter to the NBA yesterday petitioning to join the league as its 31st team.

The legendary exhibition basketball team, known for its players’ innovative basketball skills, was founded in 1926. Nathaniel “Sweetwater” Clifton had been playing for the Globetrotters when he became the first Black player to sign an NBA contract in 1950. That same year, the Boston Celtics selected Globetrotter Chuck Cooper at No. 14 overall, making him the first Black player to be drafted.

As Globetrotters general manager Jeff Munn’s letter notes, there have been rumors that the NBA is considering adding more teams in the near future. Seattle and Las Vegas are two cities likely to be considered if the league expands.

The NBA has not publicly responded to the Globetrotters’ letter yet.

Michael Jordan named NBA 2K23 cover athlete

By Rob Schaefer
Michael Jordan named NBA 2K23 cover athlete originally appeared on NBC Sports WashingtonNBA 2K wanted the rollout of its next video game release to be great, so they enlisted the help of the greatest of all time.Michael Jordan is the cover athlete for NBA 2K23 and the game's limited edition "Championship Edition," NBA 2K announced Tuesday morning. This is Jordan's fourth time on the cover of the popular video game, adding to appearances in 2K11, 2K12 and 2K16 (Special Edition).The trailer is truly something for NBA fans to behold:🏆Greatness is calling🎮Answer the call in #NBA2K23 with our Cover Athlete Michael JordanPre-order the Michael Jordan Edition and Championship Edition starting 7/7 pic.twitter.com/IyoS8T00F6— NBA 2K (@NBA2K) July 5, 2022Additionally, here is a look at the regular and "Championship Edition" covers: As for perks: The Michael Jordan edition of the game, according to a release, will feature a mode called "The Jordan Challenge," in which users will get to experience and play out an array of different moments from Jordan's basketball life, including his stints in college, the NBA and Olympics.The "Championship Edition" comes with a 12-month subscription to NBA League Pass and the opportunity to attend live games throughout the season, NBA 2K Vice President of Global Marketing Strategy Alfie Brody said in the release.The game releases on Sept. 9, but pre-orders begin on Thursday, July 7.Click here to follow the Bulls Talk Podcast.  
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