Fred “Curly” Neal, one of the greatest Harlem Globetrotters of all time, died Thursday at the age of 77.
The Harlem Globetrotters shared the heartbreaking news on Twitter.
Fred “Curly” Neal – the Harlem Globetrotters icon known worldwide for his trademark shaved head and charismatic smile – passed away this morning in his home outside of Houston at the age of 77. pic.twitter.com/JdZa6zTvZU
— Harlem Globetrotters (@Globies) March 26, 2020
Neal died in Houston, HBCU Gameday reported. He lived in the city with his fiancée Linda Ware.
After a fulfilling basketball career that occurred from 1963-1985, Neal became the 5th Globetrotters to have his number retired.
The Globetrotters were huge in those years — playing to big crowds all over the world and appearing on many TV shows.
Neal, who wore No. 22, followed in the footsteps of legendary Globetrotter Marques Haynes, taking over lead ball-handling duties as the Globetrotters dipped, doodled and dunked their way past the Washington Generals.
He earned his nickname, “Curly,” because of his shaved head.
Neal played his college basketball at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, where he was named All-CIAA in 1963. He later had his number retired there as well.
Neal is survived by Ware, two daughters and six grandchildren.
Funeral services for Neal are currently pending, according to the press release.
Rest in peace, Fred “Curly” Neal.
Check out this birthday video made for him back in 2016, showing some of his signature moves.
