1927 — Harlem Globetrotters’ Meadowlark Lemon Born

Meadowlark Lemon, known as the \”Clown Prince of Basketball,\” was born on May 20, 1927, in Wilmington, North Carolina. As a star performer for the Harlem Globetrotters, Lemon became an international icon, blending athletic excellence with comedic brilliance. Over a 24-year career, he helped transform the Globetrotters into global ambassadors for African American talent, joy, and dignity. In a time when Black players were often excluded from mainstream basketball leagues, Lemon and the Globetrotters broke barriers and entertained millions worldwide. Off the court, he was a minister, actor, and motivational speaker. His legacy reflects the cultural and political power of sports as a platform for racial pride and global diplomacy. Meadowlark Lemon’s birthday on May 20 is a celebration of Black excellence in sports and entertainment.