Harlem Globetrotters star Meadowlark Lemon, passed away in Arizona on Sunday at 83 years of age.
Otherwise known as the 'clown prince,' Lemon was a skilled player who had a penchant for attempting hook shots from half court and tricky manoeuvres in his 24 years at the club. His talent and application was rewarded in 2003 when he was inducted into the hall of fame.
On the Globetrotters website, the club CEO said of Lemon:
'He was an incredible entertainer and brought happiness and lifelong memories to millions around the world. We have lost a great ambassador of the game.'
In his time at the club, Lemon played in over 7,500 consecutive games, performing for popes, kings, queens, presidents and fans from all over the world.
R.I.P Mr. Lemon pic.twitter.com/wUxQcpQRuU
— Kim English (@Englishscope24) December 29, 2015
Lemon grew up in North Carolina and after a stint in the army where he played for the Trotters on overseas tours, he formally joined the side in 1954. He quickly became noted for his entertaining performances on the court, as well as his comedy off it. After he retired from the team in 1979, he went on to establish many of his own basketball squads.
Lemon was the recipient of a Globetrotters “Legends” Ring in 2001 and had his number 36 jersey retired as part of a 75th anniversary black tie charity fund-raiser.
The Globetrotters have decided to dedicate their 90th anniversary tour, to Lemon and fellow Harlem Globetrotters legend and Hall of Famer Marques Haynes, who passed away in May.
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