Fact check: Did Wilt Chamberlain ever suit up for the Harlem Globetrotters? Taking a closer look at NBA players who joined the exhibition team

During his time in the NBA, Wilt Chamberlain was one of the most dominant players ever. To this day, many of his records and statistical achievements stand alone in the history books. One thing that many are skeptical about is whether the Hall of Fame center ever suited up for the Harlem Globetrotters.

The Harlem Globetrotters are an entertainment act that looks to bring fans a different experience to the game of basketball. Since being founded in 1926, they have played all over the world and helped grow the game.

The Globetrotters are known for their theatrics and fan interaction. They've also tried to be pioneers by adding their own twists. One of the biggest changes the Globetrotters have made is adding a 4-point shot.

Before his journey in the NBA began, Wilt Chamberlain did indeed play for the Harlem Globetrotters. According to their "About Us" page, he played one full year and then sparingly at times between NBA seasons:

"The legendary Wilt Chamberlain was part of that historic Soviet Union tour, as the Hall of Famer played a full season with the Globetrotters in 1958-59.

"After starting his NBA career, he still played parts of several other seasons with the Globetrotters, joining the team when he could between NBA seasons. Chamberlain said that some of the most pleasant days of his life were playing for the Harlem Globetrotters."

Is Wilt Chamberlain the only NBA player to play for the Globetrotters?

While Wilt Chamberlain might be the most notable NBA player to play for the Globetrotters, he isn't the only one. A handful of players managed to secure contracts after their time with the team.

Before Chamberlain, former Globetrotter Nathaniel Clifton became the first African American to sign an NBA contract. He went on to play in the league for eight years with the New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons. In 544 games, he posted averages of 10.0 points, 8.2 rebounds and 2.5 assists. Clifton was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2014.

Other former Globetrotters to go on to the NBA include Willie Gardner and Connie Hawkins. The Hawk was a 6-foot-8 forward who played in both the NBA and the ABA. He spent the majority of his career with the Phoenix Suns and LA Lakers.

Hawkins finished with 616 games under his belt and averages of 18.7 ppg, 8.8 rpg and 4.1 apg. He also made the basketball Hall of Fame as he was inducted in 1992.