Harlem Globetrotters And Washington Generals Mourn Death Of Louis "Red" Klotz

Members of the Harlem Globetrotters and Washington Generals are mourning the death of Louis "Red" Klotz, who sadly passed away Saturday at the age of 93. Klotz was the brains behind the Generals and other teams that travelled with, and lost to, the Globetrotters for over 60 years. He first joined forces with the Globetrotters in 1952, adding many teams for them to beat, including the New York Nationals, Boston Shamrocks, and New Jersey Reds.

During his life he was a player, a coach and an owner, showing his all-round importance to the game.  A point guard, he once scored the winning shot the last time one of his teams (New Jersey) actually beat  the Globetrotters, in 1971. He became the first non-Globetrotter to have his jersey retired, in 2011 in his native Philadelphia.

Globetrotters' CEO Kurt Schneider said "The Harlem Globetrotters organization is extremely saddened by the passing of Red Klotz, and our deepest sympathies go out to his entire family. Red was truly an ambassador of the sport and as much a part of the Globetrotters' legacy as anyone ever associated with the organization. He was a vital part of helping the Globetrotters bring smiles and introduce the game of basketball to fans worldwide. He was a legend and a global treasure. His love of the game -- and his love of people -- will certainly be missed."

Klotz even played in the NBA for a few months, with the original Baltimore Bullets, adding to what was an impressive basketball career. Another great has left the game we all know and love, but his legacy will live on forever, that's for sure. Leave your favourite Klotz memories in the comment box below.