Harlem Globetrotter Returns to GMercyU Prior to Philadelphia Debut

Harlem Globetrotter Darnell "Speedy" Artis returned to Gwynedd Mercy University prior to his Philadelphia debut to celebrate the Griffins' recent Atlantic East Conference Championship.

Artis congratulated the team on behalf of the Harlem Globetrotters for winning their sixth Conference Championship and also offered some advice as they head to the NCAA DIII Tournament, as he was in their shoes just three years ago.

"It's a special feeling to be back here at Gwynedd Mercy University," Artis said. "It's even more special [to be here] on February 27 because three years ago today I played my last game in this building when we won the Championship."

Darnell, a 2016 graduate of GMercyU's Communication program, led the Griffins to a Conference Championship and took home the MVP of the Championship game. During his time at GMercyU, he developed a strong relationship with the team's head coach John Baron.

"Outside of my dad, Coach Baron is probably my biggest mentor," Artis said. "We have a special connection. He's not just a coach, not just a mentor, he's one of my best friends. He was one of the few people who believed I could be a great player."

The Griffins are heading to the NCAA Division III Men's Basketball Tournament on Friday, March 1 to take on Plattsburgh State. He offered his advice to the team.

"It doesn't matter what anyone outside of the locker room says," Artis said. "We know we can go in any environment on any given day and get a W."

Artis will be making his Philadelphia debut with the Harlem Globetrotters at the Liacouras Center on Friday, March 1 and Wells Fargo Center on Sunday, March 3.