Written by Gabriella Vigorito
Photos by Gabriella Vigorito

The Harlem Wizards came to Morgan on December 2, 2015. There was a great turn out, and Project Grad sold 725 tickets. The Morgan gym holds 750 people, and they nearly sold out.

Morgan Players:

Nate Jacobsen – Joel

Ryan Jalbert – Joel

Jill Nenninger – Pierson

David Olson – Pierson

Chris Sheeler – Pierson

Kate Martorelli – Pierson

Bev Bowen -Pierson

Jared Stevens – Eliot

Mike Hogle – Eliot

Greg Garb – Morgan

Laura Luther – Morgan

Bryan Pellegrini – Clinton Police Department / Detective

Willie Fritz – Parent

Chad Neri – Senior , Boys Basketball Team

Sami Ashton – Senior – Girls Basketball Team

Kelsey Hopkins – Senior – Girls Basketball Team

A.J. Fritz – Freshman – Boys Basketball Team

Harlem Wizards Players:

Swoop

Big J

High-Rise

Sarge

Sky-Walker

Road Runner

For the Morgan team there were 17 students, staff, and local celebrities, and on the Wizards team there were 6 players. 5 people from each team play at a time, and they played 8 min quarters, which lasted about 15 minutes each with the clock stopping for the Wizard’s skits in between. The coaches were Mike Spotts and Keith Powers assisted by Michael Le. The referees were Mark Barillaro and Tom Murray. Announcing for Morgan’s Hometown Huskies was Biology teacher Chris Luther. Mr. Luther has a nice loud voice that projects well. He always emcees pep rallies and events at Morgan.

In the hallways parents sold Harlem Wizards merchandise such as jerseys, headbands, big basketballs, small basketballs, hats, light up wands, pens, and much more. Plus at the end of the game anyone who bought a big basketball got a free wand. Also when fans purchased a jersey they became a ‘Wiz Kid.’ Wiz Kids are able to go out on the court at the beginning of the game and take a group picture with the Wizards.

During half time, people were able to go out in the hallway to buy candy, pizza, and merchandise.

There was also a 50/50 raffle. 50% of the money collected goes to the winner. Since the amount collected was $363,  the winner won $181.50. After the game, There was an autograph section

In that one night, Project Graduation 2016 made $6500! This money is used to make a fun and memorable graduation night for our seniors!