The Harlem Wizards brought their basketball entertainment show to a sold-out audience at Smithfield-Selma High School, engaging families and students with ball-handling displays, trick shots, and dunks. The event featured the JoCo All-Stars, a team made up of Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS) staff including principals, teachers, coaches, and support personnel. Audience members were also invited to join in the activities on the court.
Children in attendance participated in games such as “red light, green light” for prizes and had opportunities to interact directly with the Wizards players. The evening ended with a dance party on the gym floor for all children present.
The Harlem Wizards are known nationally for combining athletic skill with humor and crowd participation. Their performances aim to promote teamwork, education, and community involvement among audiences of all ages.
Darrick McNeill, Principal of West Smithfield Elementary and one of five JCPS principals participating in the game, emphasized community engagement around education. “We are fortunate to live in a community that not only recognizes the importance of high-quality education but also actively supports our school system in many ways.”
The event was organized by the Johnston County Education Foundation (JCEF), which invests in local schools through grants and other initiatives supporting educators and classrooms. Amy Burton, JCEF Executive Director, said: “Last night’s sold-out Harlem Wizards event was a powerful example of what’s possible when our schools and community come together. The energy, enthusiasm, and support from our teachers, staff, volunteers, and families made the evening truly special.”
Funds raised from events like this allow JCEF to support creative teaching projects across Johnston County Public Schools. “We’re grateful for this partnership and excited to continue building meaningful opportunities that benefit our students and schools,” Burton added.
Principal McNeill noted that while the event itself was entertaining, its greatest impact would be realized later as grant funds are distributed to enhance learning environments throughout the district. He stated: “Although the event itself was exciting and the players were phenomenal on both teams, its most meaningful impact will come to fruition in the months ahead, when the funds raised are awarded to our teachers as grants and invested in enhancing learning environments for students and staff across the district.” He concluded: “that will be the most rewarding slam dunk!”
Johnston County Schools serves more than 37,000 students from pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade across communities in Johnston County, North Carolina according to its official website. The district fosters cultural diversity with families representing over 45 languages and operates state-of-the-art facilities supported by strong community backing. Its main office is located in Smithfield and it stands as Johnston County’s largest employer, providing services such as student transportation and nutrition programs while focusing on student success through advanced academics and efficient operations with priorities including arts programs and athletics.
