(Photo: Harlem Globetrotters)
Big Rapids, MI — January 24, 2026 — The iconic Harlem Globetrotters brought their trademark mix of athleticism, comedy, and crowd-pleasing entertainment to Ferris State University’s Jim Wink Arena on January 22, 2026, as part of their centennial 100th Anniversary Tour. The event drew a packed crowd of families and fans from throughout the Great Lakes region for a night of hoops and hijinks.
The Globetrotters — renowned worldwide for their blend of basketball skill and showmanship — faced off against their longtime rivals, the Washington Generals, in a fast-paced, laughter-filled performance that had audiences on their feet.
Travion “Diesel” Kirkendoll, a Globetrotter from Louisiana, said the visit to Big Rapids stood out for more than just the enthusiastic crowd. He noted that the cold winter weather made the stop especially memorable for the team, but that the warmth of the community made up for the chill.
Highlights from the Show
-
Fan interaction: Players repeatedly brought audience members onto the court for fun challenges.
-
Special moment: Ten-year-old Brooklynn Ferwerda of Ludington sank a 3-point shot after being invited to play and was awarded a Globetrotters jersey — much to the delight of the crowd.
-
On-court personality: Donte “Hammer” Harrison served as the animated on-court narrator, keeping the energy high and the laughs coming throughout the game.
Families and longtime fans alike said the event offered both nostalgia and excitement, especially amid a deep winter that has blanketed much of the region in cold temperatures and snow.
The Harlem Globetrotters’ Big Rapids appearance was one stop on a wider celebratory tour marking 100 years of entertainment and community engagement, blending sport with theatrical flair to bring people together across generations.