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"Supertrotter" Billy Ray Hobley to Enter Harlem Globetrotters' Legends Ring

Hobley, who passed away on Sept. 30, 2002, at the age of 48, will be just the 29^th person in the Globetrotters' storied 85-year history to receive the distinction. Nicknamed "Supertrotter," he was known for his rim-jarring dunks, blazing ball handling and effervescent personality. Hobley traveled around the world the equivalent of six times over 22 seasons for the Globetrotters, the last of which was in 1998.

The 6-8 forward joined the Globetrotters in 1977, after averaging nearly 15 points per contest in 99 career games at Dillard University in New Orleans. Hobley had previously starred at James A. Shanks High School in Quincy, Fla., before moving to New Orleans, where he made his home before his passing.

"Billy Ray could light up any room in the world, and he always had a story to tell you," said Globetrotters Legend Sweet Lou Dunbar, who also came to the Trotters as a rookie in 1977 and was a teammate of Hobley's for over 20 years. "The nickname 'Supertrotter' fit him perfectly."

Hobley's "Legends" award will be accepted on Feb. 13 by his wife, Mattie, and children Rochelle and Billy Ray, Jr.

Created in 1993, the "Legends" award is presented to those who have made a contribution outside of basketball and played a role in the development of the Globetrotters brand. A special advisory board and the alumni select the honorees.

Hobley's commemoration is part of the Globetrotters' celebration of their 85^th consecutive season and the team's 2011 "4 Times the Fun" World Tour, during which the Globetrotters have once again revolutionized the game of basketball with their new 4-point shot.

Sponsored by Campbell Soup Company, Howard Johnson Hotels, America's Best Contacts and Eyeglasses, Greyhound Lines, Spalding, and Russell Athletic, the Original Harlem Globetrotters continue a world famous tradition of ball handling wizardry, basketball artistry and one-of-a-kind family entertainment that continues to thrill fans of all ages. Throughout their history, the Globetrotters have showcased their iconic talents in 120 countries and territories on six continents, often breaking down cultural and societal barriers while providing fans with their first-ever basketball experience. Proud inductees of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, the Globetrotters have entertained hundreds of millions of fans-among them popes, kings, queens, and presidents-over more than eight thrilling decades. To purchase tickets and team merchandise, visit the Globetrotters' official Web site: www.harlemglobetrotters.com.

Harlem Globetrotters, Phoenix
Brett Meister, 602-258-0000, ext. 104
VP, Communications
meister@harlemglobetrotters.com