Harlem Globetrotters vs. Peking Acrobats

Philadelphia Weekly
March 7, 2007

A-List

SPORTS

Harlem Globetrotters/Peking Acrobats

Harlem Globetrotters: Sat., March 10, 1pm. $13-$100. Liacouras Center, 1776 N. Broad St. 800.298.4200; Sun., March 11, 1pm and 6pm. $13-$163. Wachovia Center, 3601 Broad St. 800.298.4200. www.harlemglobetrotters.com; Peking Acrobats: Sun., March 11, 3pm, Mon., March 12-Wed., March 14, 10:15am and 12:30pm. $17.50-$25. Keswick Theatre, 291 N. Keswick Ave., Glenside. 215.572.7650. www.keswicktheatre.com

Two of the most entertaining and kid-friendly worldwide touring acts grace our fair city this week, begging the obvious question: Who’d win in a hoops battle between the ’Trotters and the ’Bats?

Obviously the early money’s on the ’Trots, what with their years of experience and two-a-days.

But the recent rise of basketball’s popularity in China combined with the Acrobats’ flat-out amazing feats of balance and agility make handicapping this battle royale more difficult. The fact that the Acrobats can flawlessly balance balls, tables and chairs with their stockinged feet while lying supine speaks to their slim advantage.

As far as running the offense goes, the Acrobats could destroy the ’Trotters’ 2-2-1 zone defense by simple diversion, employing back handsprings and midair flips to distract the post man, thus rendering the baseline wide open.

The Acrobats’ only true vulnerability is an overall lack of height. Throw Yao Ming in the mix and this one’s a push. (Joshua Valocchi)