Mark Cuban

Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban showed off his officiating expertise Feb. 1 when the Harlem Globetrotters played the New York Nationals at American Airlines Center in Dallas. The Globetrotters had some fun with the Mavericks owner on the court as he displayed his skills as a referee during the first half of action.

“We do this as good hearted fun and as fans of Mark Cuban, the NBA, and NBA officiating crews. Our players love this guy and they are as excited as I have ever seen them. Anticipating that Mark will call more fouls than we’re accustomed too, I added more players to the roster,” stated Harlem Globetrotters Chairman and Owner Mannie Jackson. “Mark is a smart guy and has been studying and evaluating refereeing for a long time, his knowledge of how the game should be called will be a treat for everyone.”

"I'm excited to add officiating to my resume," said Cuban. "I can't think of a more exciting way to do it then with the Harlem Globetrotters!"

The Harlem Globetrotters 2002 World Tour has been dubbed the “Unforgettable” tour and offers unique opportunities for fans, including:

The Harlem Globetrotters have pledged a $1 donation to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund for every mile traveled by the team buses in the United States during the upcoming season. Last year, the buses traveled more than 100,000 miles. Burger King will match the contribution with an in-kind donation.

Burger King will be providing a once-in-a-lifetime event by letting one person suit up with the team when the Globetrotters play the College All-Stars during the NABC Roundball Challenge in Atlanta.

At the conclusion of all games, children will be invited to meet the players during a courtside autograph session where every person has a chance to meet their favorite Globetrotters.

The team’s “Advance Ambassadors” will visit schools, hospitals and youth centers throughout the year to spread the goodwill of the team.

Some of the Globetrotters superstars to check out are: comedy showman, Matt “Showbiz” Jackson; the high-flying world-record dunk holder Michael “Wild Thing” Wilson, Sharavjamts “Shark” Tserenjanhor, a 7-footer from Mongolia, high scoring 6-7 forward Alex “Big Ticket” Sanders, and point guard Keiron “Sweet Pea” Shine, who was the Most Valuable Player of the 2001 Fall College Tour.

Following are some photos taken during Cuban's experience:

Cuban posed with the Globetrotters pregame. Layne Murdoch/NBAE Photos

Cuban addressed media along with Globetrotters owner Mannie Jackson (left) and Head Coach Tex Harrison (right). Layne Murdoch/NBAE Photos

Cuban took advantage of being in the stripes Fri. night. Layne Murdoch/NBAE Photos

Cuban making a call Feb. 1. Layne Murdoch/NBAE Photos

Cuban discusses the call with Globetrotters referee Barry Terry. Layne Murdoch/NBAE Photos

Najera goes up for the basket. Layne Murdoch/NBAE Photos