Harlem Wizards to play April 9 at South Putnam

The Harlem Wizards are returning to South Putnam High School on Thursday, April 9 at 6:30 p.m. to play the "Legends."

The Wizards have a unique mission: Creating awe-inspiring events throughout the country. Whereas a NBA team's success is measured in wins and losses, the Wizards victory lies in the millions of smiles they are responsible for and the millions of dollars raised for charitable organizations.

The game at South Putnam is sponsored by the South Putnam Community Education Foundation with help from donations by POET Ethanol and the Holiday Inn Express.

The Education Foundation has been providing Teacher Grants and Scholarships for several years and started the first South Putnam Alumni Banquet. Since 1962, the Wizards have been making history with the happiness, fun, goodwill and excitement they bring.

At a Wizards game, fans will witness amazing basketball talent combined with hilarious comedy. Its two hours of family time where parents, grandparents and kids can all laugh together. When you're in the stands, you're more than a spectator; you're part of the show with loads of audience participation. Throughout the game, fans will experience a magical display of tricks, coordinated ball handling, fancy passing and aerodynamic athleticism combined with high-energy comedy and audience interaction.

The Wizards will be playing some of the local heroes from the basketball court and the classroom as well as local patrons looking to have a fun time.

Ticket orders are being taken at all South Putnam schools along with Cook Lumber and Greenburg Accounting. Student orders will be filled at the school while other patron tickets may be purchased at the school and picked up at the door. Prices are $8 for students and $10 for adults in advance and $10-$12 for everyone at the door. Limited reserve seating will be available for $15 and courtside plus tickets are available for $25. For a special opportunity to join the Wizards team for warm-ups, patrons may pre-order or purchase at the door Wizard jerseys for $45 and be able to join them on the court for their 30-minute warm-up period and then enjoy special seating immediately behind the Wizard bench.

Jerseys will be picked up at the door but may be pre-ordered at the schools to ensure proper sizes.

The Wizards have a 3,500+ game winning streak. They have toured worldwide to five continents and 22 countries. NBA Top 50 All-Time selections Connie Hawkins and Nate "Tiny" Archibald have both played with the Wizards. In total, mote than 20 NBA players have played with the Wizards and college greats and blacktop legends have also dotted the Wizards roster.

While these players are all impressive athletes and exceptional entertainers, they all are passionate about serving as positive role models for children. They deliver powerful messages during the Wizards' assembly programs and many players serve as mentors and coaches for children and plan to continue when their playing days are over.

The Wizards are also promoting exercise and nutrition to children and families across the world.