Harlem Globetrotters Rivalry Tour to Debut Limited-Edition Spalding Ball and New Merchandise
The Harlem Globetrotters are launching a new Rivalry Tour in December, and collectors will have several new pieces to watch for as the team enters its 101st season. The tour tips off December 18 and will introduce two new rival teams alongside the Washington Generals, expanding the Globetrotters’ on-court universe for more than 350 games around the world. The names and identities of the two new teams have not yet been revealed, but the organization says all three rival teams will be tied to new colors, branding and merchandise created specifically for the Rivalry Tour.
The biggest confirmed collectible so far is the Harlem Globetrotters Rivals Replica Game Ball by Spalding. The limited-edition “hybrid” basketball will be available for purchase at games, giving fans a tour-specific piece connected directly to the new rivalry concept. No price or production quantity has been announced yet.
New uniforms are also coming for both the Globetrotters and their rivals, with Starter serving as the team’s new outfitting partner. The organization says those uniforms will introduce new colors, identities and styles, with accompanying fan merchandise planned around the same designs. Additional uniform and merchandise details will be announced separately.
Because the two new rival teams are being introduced from scratch, the first wave of apparel and memorabilia will effectively serve as the debut merchandise for those identities. Depending on what Starter and the Globetrotters release, that could include the first jerseys, shirts, hats and other branded items tied to the new teams.
The Globetrotters have also been expanding their presence in memorabilia and collectibles through outside partnerships. The organization specifically points to current consumer-product relationships with companies and retailers including Spalding, Super Break Sports, the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame, Target and Walmart. The Rivalry Tour continues that push by adding new team identities and tour-specific products rather than relying entirely on traditional Globetrotters merchandise.
Beyond the merchandise, the tour is being built around a more interactive fan experience. A free Tip-Off Party will begin when arena doors open, while fans will be able to vote live on certain basketball challenges and potentially participate in the action themselves. Premium options include an MVP Court Pass, an Ultimate Fan Pass and Globetrotters or Rivals VIP Bench Tickets, which place fans directly on the bench during the game.
The North American leg begins December 18 and runs through spring 2027, followed by international dates throughout the year. Planned markets include France, the United Kingdom, Canada, Italy, Germany, Spain, China, the Middle East and other parts of Asia.