Hubert "Geese" Ausbie

One of the most popular and recognizable Harlem Globetrotters ever, Hubert "Geese" Ausbie thrilled audiences with his awesome talent and effervescent personality around the world for 24 years. He served as the "Clown Prince" for the Globetrotters from 1961 to 1985.

In 1961, Geese attended an open tryout during the Globetrotters’ training camp in Chicago, where he was chosen for the team from more than 500 players from around the country. He turned down a pro baseball contract with the Chicago Cubs to pursue a career with the Globetrotters.

Geese was part of one of the most extraordinary eras in the team's history, appearing on several popular television programs and specials, including “ABC's Wide World of Sports," "CBS Sports Spectacular," "The Ed Sullivan Show," "The Harlem Globetrotters Popcorn Machine," "The White Shadow" and "The Harlem Globetrotters on Gilligan‘s Island." He also appeared in numerous national TV commercials and was immortalized in animation on “The Harlem Globetrotters” cartoon series and on episodes of "Scooby Doo."

A native of Crescent, Okla., Geese attended Douglas High School, where during one memorable week his senior season he scored 70, 54 and 62 points in three consecutive games during a tournament. Over 200 colleges and universities vied for his basketball abilities, and he chose Philander Smith College in Little Rock (Ark.), where he averaged 30 points a game during his college career.

Geese was honored with the Harlem Globetrotters "Legends" Ring on March 6, 1994, during a pregame ceremony at the Target Center in Minneapolis. The "Legends" distinction is presented to those who have made a major contribution to the success and development of the Globetrotters organization, excelling on and off the court in athletic ability, showmanship, crowd appeal and humanitarian contributions.