Harlem Globetrotters Sold to Theme Park Operators

Worldwide basketball brand Harlem Globetrotters exhibition basketball team have been bought by theme park operator Herschend Family Entertainment, it has been revealed.

Norcross, Georgia-based Herschend, which operates 26 theme parks and aquariums across the nation, including most notably Dolly Parton’s Dollywood theme parks, acquired the team from private equity firm Shamrock Capital Advisors.

The Globetrotters perform more than 400 times each year around the world, reaching more than three million spectators in more than 30 nations.

“For nearly nine decades, the Harlem Globetrotters have had a rich tradition of creating family memories through sports and entertainment,” said HFE president Joel Manby.

“The team is coming off its best touring year ever, and this acquisition helps HFE diversify into a new but complementary business.”

The Globetrotters have played more than 25,000 games in 122 countries over six continents, attracting more than 138 million fans and earning a place in the Basketball Hall of Fame.