HOUSTON – Former Harlem Globetrotter Charles "Tex" Harrison died in Houston at the age of 81 Thursday, according to the Harlem Globetrotters.
The Globetrotters said Harrison estimated he traveled to more than 100 countries during his career with the team. He spent 18 years as a player before becoming a coach and advisor.
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"We have lost one of the greatest members of the Globetrotters' family," said Globetrotters CEO Kurt Schneider in a statement. "Few can match Tex's commitment and contributions to the team. His wisdom, down-to-earth demeanor and sharp wit will certainly be missed."
Harrison was born in Indiana and raised in Houston. He attended North Carolina Central University in Durham where he earned a degree in physical education.
Harrison was discovered during the World Series of Basketball in 1954 when he faced the Globetrotters as a member of the College All-American team, according to the Globetrotters.
The Globetrotters quoted Harrison as once saying: "Aside from my family, being a Harlem Globetrotter has been the greatest highlight of my life. I have had the good fortune to be a part of the most celebrated sports team in history."