Curly Neal Passed Away!

Curly Neal passed away. The famed Harlem Globetrotter entertained millions until his retirement.

The Harlem Globetrotters former leader and dazzler of dribble, Freddie "Curly" Neal passed away in Houston. The famed basketball star died at the age of 77. We cannot confirm if he had the coronavirus.

Curly Neal, entertained millions with the Harlem Globetrotters for parts of three decades.

The Globetrotters confirmed the news on social media and in a public statement.

"We have lost one of the most genuine human beings the world has ever known," Globetrotters general manager Jeff Mun said in a statement on social media. Curly's basketball skill was unrivaled by most, and his warm heart and hug smile brought joy to families worldwide."

Neal played for the Globetrotters from 1963-85, appearing in more than 6.000 games in 97 countries for the exhibition team known for its combination of comedy and athleticism.

He became one of the five Globetrotters to have his jersey retired when his No. 22 was lifted to the rafters of Madison Square Garden in a special ceremony in 2008.

Neal and the Globetrotters also appeared on numerous television shows, commercials and events.

He was a featured player on Hanna-Barbera's The New Scooby-Doo! Movies and The Adventures of the Harlem Globetrotters. He also appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show, The Love Boat and Gilligan's Island.

Neal would be the most visible Globetrotter. He would have his trademark shaved head, infectious smile and his ability to dribble circles around the would-be defenders.

Curly Neal in his cartoon form. He was voiced by the late Stu Gilliam.

Neal was born in Greensboro, North Carolina. He was a lead player at his high school. He took classes at Johnson C. Smith University where he led the team to the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association title after averaging 23 points per game as a senior. He was inducted into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame in 2008. It included legendary coach Roy Williams.

Curly stood at 6'1''. He leaves behind two daughters Rocurl (Raquel) and Laverne Neal. He has six grandchildren and was engaged with his girlfriend Linda Ware until his death.

Ball hard, brother. The iconic Curly Neal will never be forgotten.

Here's The Harlem Globetrotters cartoon series. Curly gave Hanna-Barbera permission to use his likeness for the children's television show. The Harlem Globetrotters and The Super Globetrotters lasted only one season but did leave an impact on the franchise.