From Toledo to Globetrotting the World and Beyond!

When people learn that my Grandfather played for the Harlem Globetrotters, they get a better understanding about the special place in my life and the impact on my career that this iconic team has had on me.

Al Price (and his brother Bernie) played for the Globetrotters in the late 1930s and 40s.?He was the Father of my stepdad Thomas N. Price. When he would visit us in California, he would share stories of games, teammates, travel, and experiences both good and bad.?When I was able to visit him in his native Toledo OH, the life and career lessons instilled on me took on a whole new scope.

Having traveled the world - his global outlook, knowledge of so many unique things, interest in the Arts, Culture, and People led him to live such a rich life.?He was one of the first people I knew who showed me how the sport of basketball could open so much more to life.?He shared that while on the road, he would always take time to look beyond the game to what life was presenting him with each day.

When I cross paths with current Globetrotter Players, I try to share with them that – albeit a grinding season (the team currently plays on average 5+ games a week) – this part of your life is an amazing opportunity to expand your personal global reach, open new doors, and more importantly, get excited - and prepared - for your post-playing career days.?

If I was able to give the pre-game talk for tonight’s game in Stockton California:

• Welcome to Game #1 in Northern California!?Over the next 6-days in our Market?(San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose tri-city area), you will play on some iconic courts in amazing Arena’s in front of almost a combined 75,000 fans.?This is dope.
• Tonight after the game, update or create a Linkedin profile.?For the next 4 days, you are part of the Bay Area Professional Athlete Sports Family and our Players are making big strides in networking on this platform.?Lifetime business connections can be made in the next 96 hours without even leaving the court.?This is important for brand “you”.?
• On the bus rides – look out the window, take in the topography and look for the names of the Companies on the buildings – do you see any products or brands you use??Take notes, follow some of these companies, and even send a connection request.?This is digital networking.
• Continue to live in the moment.?Today, January 13, 2022 you are a Professional Athlete for the World-Famous Harlem Globetrotters, putting on a uniform that has been worn by such legends as Meadowlark Lemon, Marques Haynes, Fred "Curly" Neal, "Sweet" Lou Dunbar, Paul “Showtime” Gafney, and so many others.?We are all dealing with challenges “off the court” but for right here, right now, take in and appreciate every single second of the next 48 minutes.?This is the brand.
• Lastly, think about your future visit back to the Bay in 2030.?What would you like be doing with your life then??Is there a Company you might want to work for??Is there a business opportunity that’s unique to our area that you would want to be part of??Is there a business contact that you want to meet in person with??This is your future.

I know Grandpa Al is watching the team from above and I’ll be sitting in the stands this weekend with pride.??

Stay safe!

SE

The Official Site of the Harlem Globetrotters

Al W. Price, Sr., 1917-2011

Toledo Jim White Chevrolets