Fansided

Globetrotters Also “Draft” Mariano Rivera

By JJ Keller

Jun 21, 2013; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Yankees relief pitcher Mariano Rivera (42) pitches during the ninth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Yankee Stadium. Yankees won 6-2. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 21, 2013; Bronx, NY, USA; New York Yankees relief pitcher Mariano Rivera (42) pitches during the ninth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Yankee Stadium. Yankees won 6-2. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports /
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As part of their tradition, the Globetrotters have chosen a few athletes to become honorary members of the team. It was reported earlier than Britney Griner of the WNBA was invited, and now Yankees Closer Mariano Rivera is joining the list as well.

According the Bryan Hoch of MLB.com, Rivera was caught off guard by the news, as he is not much of a basketball player. He said that he is somewhat of a hoops fan, but it was not that big in Panama where he grew up.

Rivera said, “I just got the ball and tried to get it in that basket. I was just having fun. It wasn’t a game that I was crazy about. I like to watch it; I do love to watch it, especially the playoffs. But that’s all I know about basketball.”

Then, also per MLB.com, the CEO of the Globetrotters said:

"“In the fourth quarter, when the Globetrotters need to close out a game, who better than the best closer of all-time? Mariano Rivera has made a living by finishing off opponents,” Harlem Globetrotters CEO Kurt Schneider said in a statement. “We always have a place on our roster for winning athletes with that kind of mindset. His charitable work through the Mariano Rivera Foundation also embodies the spirit of the Globetrotters giving back to the community.”"

Harlem clearly want Mo to join the team, at least for a day to honor what he has done, both on and off the field.

It is not clear whether or not he will accept the invitation, but I don’t see why he wouldn’t. He sounded pretty positive about the whole thing, and more things like this are likely to come as Rivera’s final MLB season comes to an end.