MHS Students Get a Front Row Lesson from a Harlem Globetrotter

More than 100 Milton Hershey School Middle Division student-athletes filled the Catherine Hall gym on Friday, Jan. 30, for a memorable visit from Harlem Globetrotter Julian “Zeus” McClurkin, whose passion for basketball and positive energy immediately resonated with the young players.

McClurkin began by sharing the Harlem Globetrotters’ rich history, explaining how the team has used basketball for nearly a century to entertain audiences, break barriers, and inspire communities around the world. He spoke about the responsibility that comes with representing such an iconic organization and emphasized that behind the fun and flash is a strong foundation of teamwork, discipline, and respect for the game.

Drawing from his own journey, McClurkin described what it took to earn a spot on the Globetrotters roster. He highlighted the importance of commitment, resilience, and learning from both success and setbacks, encouraging students to stay focused on their goals and support one another as teammates.

One of the most exciting moments of the visit came when McClurkin introduced the Harlem Globetrotters’ famous “magic circle”—a signature pre-game routine where players form a circle and, in rapid succession, showcase their most impressive ball-handling skills and tricks. McClurkin invited six students to join him in the magic circle, teaching them a few techniques and encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones. He then demonstrated his own skills, drawing cheers and applause from the crowd.

By the end of the visit, students walked away inspired—not only by McClurkin’s talent, but by how his message reflected the purpose of athletics at Milton Hershey School. Through sports, MHS students learn to work toward shared goals, manage responsibility, build leadership and character, and grow from both victories and challenges—lessons that extend far beyond the court.