The Harlem Wizards defeated the Wootton Cluster 78-60 in a friendly fundraiser basketball game in the main gym on Monday, Mar. 31.

The Harlem Wizards are a professional basketball team known for their entertaining, high-energy shows that mix basketball tricks, comedy and audience participation. Founded in 1962 by sports promoter Howie Davis, the Wizards were created to be a fun, community-focused alternative to traditional basketball games. They’re often compared to the Harlem Globetrotters, but the Wizards put more emphasis on interaction with the crowd, often bringing kids and teachers onto the court to join in the fun.

The Wootton Cluster team was made up of teachers, administrators and community leaders, who bravely stepped onto the court despite knowing they were in for a challenge. One of the most notable participants was MCPS Superintendent Thomas Taylor, who was eager to participate in the event. “This exciting game was organized to raise funds for the Wootton High School PTSA, and it turned out to be a night of fun and engagement for attendees of all ages,” Taylor said in a post-game Instagram caption.

The Harlem Wizards have a long-standing reputation for partnering with schools to create engaging fundraising events. Their games offer a unique blend of sports and entertainment, making them an ideal choice for schools looking to host community-centered fundraisers. The Wizards’ commitment to delivering high-quality, interactive performances has made them a favorite among schools nationwide.

From the opening tip-off, it was clear the Wootton Cluster team was at a slight disadvantage — namely, they had neither the speed, height, nor the ability to spin a basketball on their finger while dancing. But what they lacked in athleticism, they more than made up for in enthusiasm and comedic timing. Whether it was a teacher dribbling straight into a Harlem Wizard’s trap or a principal attempting a layup that turned into an accidental pass to a referee, the Cluster Team kept the crowd laughing and cheering all game long. “I’m not the tallest person around, so yeah, it was weird standing next to the freakishly tall Wizards during the game,” senior Daniel Yaya said.

The game felt more like a comedy show than a competition, as the Wizards’ flashy moves were met with theatrical flops and constant dance breakdowns on the floor. Despite being thoroughly outmatched, the Wootton Cluster team never lost their spirit and somehow managed to score a few baskets, each one greeted like a game-winner by the roaring crowd. It was this mix of humility and humor that turned a lopsided game into a truly unforgettable performance. “It was kind of funny. Every five minutes or so, the game would just stop, and they would start chucking up no-look half-court shots, or one of them would dribble the length of the court and then dunk,” senior Thomas Mehler said.

As the game came to a close, it was clear that the real victory wasn’t in the final score but in the memories created and the funds raised. The Harlem Wizards once again proved why they are beloved worldwide, turning a simple game of basketball into an unforgettable experience.