On Saturday, March 14, 2026, the world‑famous Harlem Wizards returned to Manalapan for an unforgettable day of basketball, laughter, and community spirit. Playing two action‑packed games in the MEMS Main Gym, the Wizards took on the MERS All‑Star team—made up of district staff members and administrators—in an electrifying event sponsored by The Foundation. Students, parents, and community members packed the stands, cheering loudly as their favorite faculty members hit the court.
From jaw-dropping trick shots and slick dribbling to alley-ops, “crazy slams,” and playful theatrics, the Harlem Wizards thrilled basketball fans and non-fans alike. Their signature blend of athletic talent and high‑energy entertainment kept the crowd on its feet, filling the gym with laughter, excitement, and plenty of oohs and aahs.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of the Manalapan‑Englishtown community, the Harlem Wizards Fundraising Event raised more than $17,000 for The Foundation for MERS. These funds will directly support educational resources and innovative teacher grants across the Manalapan‑Englishtown Regional School (MERS) District, benefiting students at every level. Fundraising events like this play a vital role in helping the Foundation continue its mission to enhance educational opportunities district‑wide.
The Foundation has proudly partnered with the Harlem Wizards for more than a decade and was thrilled to welcome them back once again. Ricardo G. Rivers, President of the Foundation, shared his appreciation for the event’s success, saying, “The Wizards delivered an incredible show for all ages. We are grateful for the continued support of our community and sponsors, whose generosity made this event such a success. It was truly a fantastic experience for everyone involved.”
With another hugely successful event in the books, the partnership between the Foundation, the Wizards, and the MERS community continues to prove that when fun and philanthropy come together, everyone wins.
