Harlem Wizards to take on Center Township Elementary School staff in Friday basketball game
The Harlem Wizards are returning to Butler Area School District on Friday, Jan. 17, to challenge the staff of Center Township Elementary School to a rematch game of basketball.
While school’s staff members have been practicing for the big game, the wizards of the traveling team have tricks up their sleeve to make the match not only difficult for the home team, but entertaining for the people watching.
“There's a show component and tricks,” said Tayna Lewis, principal of Center Township Elementary. “They do pause the play for a bit and do some silly moves and things like their show.”
The Harlem Wizards played against Center Township Elementary staff in January 2023, as a fundraiser to help install a rock climbing wall in the school gym. Lewis said this Friday’s event will also be a fundraiser, to help pay for upgrades to equipment in the school’s playground.
According to Lewis, the Parent-Teacher Organization and leadership of the school and school district are looking to install new components to make the playground more accessible and fun for the youths who utilize it.
And while the basketball game will be the main fundraiser for the playground, the Harlem Wizards will start their day at Center Township Elementary, where they will teach the students some basketball tricks and tips.
Lewis said the visit from the Harlem Wizards two years ago was a big hit with the school’s children.
“The kids had a fantastic time, they were laughing,” Lewis said. “They do tricks and basketball moves, so it was great.”
Although the Harlem Wizards is a team made up of experienced basketball players who have traveled the nation to play the game, Lewis said the school’s staff aim to give them a run for their money. Never a team to walk away from a challenge, the school’s staff has been practicing after work to help them stand a chance against the Wizards, and they have been having fun along the way, Lewis said.
“The staff has been having some practice sessions after school where they're practicing,” Lewis said. “They challenged the high school volleyball team last night at a game of basketball, just for fun.”
The game between Center Township Elementary and the Harlem Wizards begins at 7 p.m. Friday at Butler Senior High School. Advance tickets start at $8 for students and $10 for general admission, and can be purchased online at harlemwizards.com. Tickets also will be available at the door, and Lewis said there will be concessions on sale.
