Alisha Rodriguez

Office Manager

Alisha Rodriguez came to the Harlem Wizards organization in September, 2008 and is already displaying her quick learning, enthusiasm and leadership skills at the Wizards headquarters. Born and raised in Queens, New York, her interest in sports was nurtured by her maternal grandmother, who was a lifelong sports enthusiast. Upon leaving New York, Alisha went on to complete her Bachelor's of Arts in Psychology with a minor in African American Studies in 2003 at Emory University in Atlanta, GA. She later gained experienced in event and travel coordination, while working at the historic Morehouse College. Upon her return to New York, Alisha was promoted to Branch Manager for a national mortgage company, becoming one of the youngest women in the company to hold this position. Her most recent position as a real estate agent only further developed her customer service skills, which are indispensable in her new position as Office Manager for the Harlem Wizards.

Alisha is the player that you don't see on the court but is still an essential member of the team. Although her grandmother has passed away, she would be proud to know that Alisha is carrying on the legacy of a love of sports with such an inspirational and exciting organization such as the Harlem Wizards.

If you would like to contact Alisha about an event or information about the Harlem Wizards, she can be reached at (201)271-3600, ext. 204 or via email at alisha@harlemwizards.com

Manu "The Magician" Iyer

The 6th Man

Manu Iyer recently joined the Wizards staff, excelling in his position as Health Director of two Harlem Wizards summer camps. His love of basketball and dedication to kids led him to the position. He brings enthusiasm, creativity, support, and diligence to the organization.

Now, Manu has been hired to support all aspects of Wizards operations from customer support to shipping and much more. Manu will also be involved in creative endeavors for the fan section of the web site, as well as, head up the Wizards new initiative for online ticketing.

Besides his work with the Wizards, Manu has volunteered extensively, most recently with the Obama Campaign. In addition, he has worked at camps and community centers, as well as, coached adults with the Special Olympics. He has taken his volunteer spirit abroad to India, working with adults and children coming from adverse backgrounds.

The staff speaks:
"Along this journey that is my life, I came across an organization whose mission statement was the same as mine. The Harlem Wizards left an indelible mark on me. My view is that this is an organization that reaches a wide spectrum of audiences healing the world one smile at a time. What started out as a fascination with the Wizards 5 years ago, finally came to fruition this summer."

Jamel "The Voice" Thompson

Master of Ceremonies

An official Harlem Wizard since 1997, Jamel is now the voice behind the action. Jamel had to retire his jersey as a player with the Harlem Wizards after being side-lined with a career ending injury. However, you may still see the player spirit in Jamel as he announces at the Harlem Wizards games while taking care of the technical sound system behind the scenes.

As a 1991 Graduate of Minisink Valley H.S. in Slate Hill, N.Y, Jamel led the Warriors to it's first ever Section IX Championship. During that championship, he averaged 24.5 points, 6.8 rebounds and 5.4 assist per game. He was a 1st team Cable 6 & Times Herald Record All Star. Jamel was also a McDonald's All American nominee. He is also a 1992 Graduate of Bridgeton Academy in North Bridgeton and he played three seasons at Mississippi College (Division II) after transferring from St. Francis College of N.Y., (Division I) after his freshman season. While there, Jamel led the Choctaws to a Gulf South Conference Championship and a NCAA berth. In addition to traveling abroad with the Harlem Wizards, Jamel has played professionally in Puerto Rico with San Juan, Yauco, Villalba, Guaynabo, and Ponce. He is also the CEO of Black Butta Entertainment. In Jamel's own words, "to be a Wizard means to be a positive role model for the kids. It also means to carry out the tradition of being an ambassador of good will." Jamel may be reached via e-mail at JThompson@harlemwizards.com.

Marija Kero

mj@harlemwizards.com, 1-800-367-7213 ext. 201

Marija is a colorful personality, with an interesting work history. She most recently worked hands on with New York's youth as a high school Algebra teacher. Six years ago as a Starbuck's barista, she provided wonderful service and exciting conversation about her beloved Knicks, to Wizards President, Todd Davis.

With the Wizards Marija can combine her love of basketball with her passion for working with children. Who knew that six years later she would be serving up the opportunity for exciting and fun basketball entertainment and fundraising to schools throughout New York City and Long Island.

Lisa Rawson

lisa@harlemwizards.com, 1-800-367-7213 ext. 206

Lisa Rawson lives in Northwest Pennsylvania with her husband and two children, ages 7 and 13. Her involvement in their middle school led to the position of PTO President. As President, she was looking for something exciting and fun to bring to the school and surrounding community when she received a flyer for the Harlem Wizards. That was three years ago and since then her school has hosted three slammin' shows.

After hosting very successful events, Lisa knows exactly what is involved in planning a Wizards event. She is eager to work closely with schools in her region to help bring the magic of the Wizards to their students and community.

Shelley Helton

shelley@harlemwizards.com, 1-800-367-7213 ext. 252 or cell 859-462-7036

Shelley brings an extensive sales background to the Wizards organization having worked in the insurance industry for 12 years and for 1 years in an independent baseball organization. Shelley's enthusiasm, commitment and attention to detail will serve her well in her work with her customers to insure successful shows.

Shelley currently lives in Villa Hills, Kentucky with her husband and two children, ages 11 and 13. After hosting two shows for her local middle school while serving as PTO President, it was very natural for her to want to be involved with such a dynamic and exciting organization in a sales capacity

Laura Gilman

www.lgilmanassociates.com or 1-800-367-7213 ext. 205

Laura Gilman brings years of expertise in booking entertainment for colleges, universities and corporate events. She works closely with the Harlem Wizards on their Student Activities' tour at the nation's colleges and universities.

Please contact Todd Davis, td@harlemwizards.com, 1-800-367-7213 ext. 203

Contact our Office Manager, Alisha Rodriguez, alisha@harlemwizards.com, 1-800-367-7213, ext 204.

Wizards perform for I-Star Charity Event

Madison Square Garden, NY