Science of Basketball

February 12, 2012; noon – 4 pm

Explore the science of basketball with Harlem Globetrotters star Curly Neal. Find out what makes dribbling difficult, why a three-pointer is all in the wrist, and the physics of the perfect dunk.

Harlem Globetrotters legend Curly Neal will visit the New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) on Sunday, February 12 as part of a one-day-only program, the Science of Basketball. The day will be filled with workshops, demonstrations, promotions and a special presentation by Neal himself. Neal will participate in a basketball science experiment and will showcase some of the Globetrotters trademark basketball moves. All events are free with general NYSCI admission. Space for certain events will be limited, so arrive early.

The day’s roster of activities includes:
Harlem Globetrotters’ Legend Curly Neal – 1 & 2 pm
Join one of the most famous Harlem Globetrotters in history, Curly Neal, for a special presentation. A legend in sports and entertainment, Neal captured the imagination of fans over 22 seasons, playing in more than 6,000 games in 97 countries with the Hall of Fame team. Neal will be joined by one of NYSCI’s Explainers for an entertaining basketball-themed science experiment. Following the experiment, Curly will also take questions from audience members. Tickets are free and will be distributed to visitors on February 12 on a first-come, first-served basis. Space is limited.

Science of Basketball Demonstrations – noon & 3 pm
Learn the science behind some of your favorite basketball moves. A NYSCI Explainer will demonstrate the moves, explain the underlying science, and allow museum visitors to try out some of the tricks for themselves. Velocity, gravity, physics and even a little chemistry will put a new spin on the sport.

Sports Cart – noon – 4 pm
Suit up! Helmets, shoulder pads, bats, balls and gloves. Learn how sports equipment protects players from injury and leads to new developments in sports.

Today’s current Harlem Globetrotter stars will take the court for six high-flying games from February 17-20, including the IZOD Center (February 17 and 20), the Prudential Center (February 18), Madison Square Garden (February 18), and Nassau Coliseum (February 19). Tickets to see the world’s most famous basketball team are on sale now at www.harlemglobetrotters.com, the respective arena box office, or by phone at 800-745-3000.

For discounted tickets to select Harlem Globetrotters performances, use promotion code NYSCI and visit the special Ticketmaster page at www.ticketmaster.com/promo/taxrzv