(PHOENIX, Aug. 25, 2009) – Adding another chapter to his illustrious career, Harlem Globetrotters Legend Sweet Lou Dunbar has been promoted to director of player personnel for the world-renowned basketball team.

One of the most popular Showmen in team history, Dunbar will be in charge of developing the roster of a franchise preparing for its 84th consecutive season of touring the world.

Entering his 30th year with the Globetrotters, Dunbar has journeyed the equivalent of three times around the world, entertaining more than 10 million people on six continents.  He guided the team as a head coach this past year and spent his previous post-playing years in player development and as a Goodwill Ambassador™, making special media appearances for the team. 

“His extensive knowledge of the Globetrotters as a revered Showman, along with his media savvy and coaching acumen, makes Sweet Lou the perfect person to evaluate talent and develop players,” said Globetrotters CEO Kurt Schneider. “He understands how the Globetrotters are admired by people of many different cultures all over the world, and he can convey to our new generation of players what an honor and a responsibility that is.” 

Dunbar was discovered by a Globetrotter scout during a summer pro league with the NBA's Houston Rockets.  He starred for the University of Houston from 1972-1975, and at 6-10, he was one of the first big men to play point guard for a major university.  He also played forward and center for the Cougars, earning All-American honors, and was inducted into the University of Houston Hall of Honor on Nov. 15, 2008.
 
Dunbar is one of only 28 people to be honored with the Globetrotters’ prestigious "Legends" ring, presented to those who have made a major contribution to the success and the devel¬opment of the Globetrotter organization. He was bestowed that honor on Feb. 9, 2007.

Sponsored by Campbell Soup Company, IHOP, Spalding, and America’s Best Contacts and Eyeglasses, the Original Harlem Globetrotters are in their 83rd consecutive season of touring the world.  The Globetrotters have played in 120 countries on six continents, entertaining over 130 million fans and crossing barriers between cultures, societies and people from all walks of life.  The Globetrotters are one of only six teams to be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.  Click here to purchase team merchandise.