West Hartford’s Norfeldt Elementary gets a slam-dunk spring assembly as the Harlem Wizards take the court.

The Harlem Wizards perform during Norfeldt Elementary School’s spring assembly in West Hartford on June 3, 2025. Photo Credit: Mia Jaworski

By Mia Jaworski 

Two Harlem Wizards – No. 13, Robert “Smooth” Young, and No. 44, JJ “Jumping Jack”– hosted Norfeldt Elementary School’s spring assembly Tuesday in West Hartford, entertaining students with games, tricks, and high-flying dunks.

The assembly included two 45-minute performances for all grade levels, where students earned wristbands, autographs, headbands, and jerseys by winning games like “Don’t Drop the Ball.” The event was organized by the Norfeldt PTO.

The Harlem Wizards perform during Norfeldt Elementary School’s spring assembly in West Hartford on June 3, 2025. Photo Credit: Mia Jaworski

The show opened with Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off,” drawing cheers as Young and JJ launched into high-energy dance moves that fired up the crowd.

The Harlem Wizards, founded in 1962 by Howie Davis, combine basketball skills and entertainment to raise funds for schools and nonprofits nationwide. Davis sought to create a show that blended sportsmanship and fun with a purpose. Over the decades, the Wizards have toured widely, featured former NBA stars, and focused on community-building events. They perform at schools, fundraisers, assemblies, and run their own fitness program called Wiz Fit.

The Harlem Wizards perform during Norfeldt Elementary School’s spring assembly in West Hartford on June 3, 2025. Photo Credit: Mia Jaworski

One game featured two teachers and two students – randomly picked from those sitting with hands raised and eager to join the fun – who had to mimic tricky basketball moves performed by a Wizard. Challenges included maneuvering the ball around heads and legs, along with other unusual tricks. The game ended with Norfeldt Kindergarten teacher Bryan Cistulli bouncing the ball on his back.

Robert “Smooth” Young and JJ “Jumping Jack” of the Harlem Wizards perform during Norfeldt Elementary School’s spring assembly in West Hartford on June 3, 2025. Photo Credit: Mia Jaworski

“We are always looking for fun things,” said a Norfeldt parent and PTO member. “We want to host something fun and educational.” The assembly aimed to blend fun with community spirit, leaving students energized and ready for the rest of the school year.

The assembly concluded with the Wizards wishing students a happy and healthy summer.

Robert “Smooth” Young and JJ “Jumping Jack” of the Harlem Wizards perform during Norfeldt Elementary School’s spring assembly in West Hartford on June 3, 2025. Photo Credit: Mia Jaworski

Last year, the school hosted Mannie Nogueira BMX Shows LLC for the spring assembly. Norfeldt PTO also hosts an annual cultural fall assembly.

A Norfeldt Elementary School teacher receives memorabilia and swag after participating in a game with the Harlem Wizards during the school’s spring assembly in West Hartford on June 3, 2025. Photo credit: Mia Jaworski

The Harlem Wizards perform during Norfeldt Elementary School’s spring assembly in West Hartford on June 3, 2025. Photo Credit: Mia Jaworski

The Harlem Wizards perform during Norfeldt Elementary School’s spring assembly in West Hartford on June 3, 2025. Photo Credit: Mia Jaworski

The Harlem Wizards perform during Norfeldt Elementary School’s spring assembly in West Hartford on June 3, 2025. Photo Credit: Mia Jaworski

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