For dads and granddads who remember names such as Meadowlark Lemon, Marques Haynes and Curly Neal, the Harlem Globetrotters hold a magical place in the basketball universe. While these classic players are long retired, you can rest assured: There are young, new “clown princes” and eye-popping ball handlers who are continuing the tradition of crushing opponents while keeping a smile on everyone’s face. If you have a kid in your life, taking him or her to see the Globetrotters is a tradition you should continue, too.

Michael Deeds