Saperstein, Abe

1902–1966
Basketball promoter

Became the owner, promoter, coach, and occasionally, at 5'3", substitute player of the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters.

The Globetrotters played regular, competitive basketball until 1929, when, fearing that fans would tire of their predictable victories, they began clowning on the court for pure entertainment.

Saperstein guided and promoted the all-black team for 39 years, providing opportunities for black players who were excluded by professional leagues.