Spinning the Game Forward: How Herb "The Flight" Lang Uses Kindness & Basketball to Change Lives
Basketball is often defined by stats—points, rebounds, assists. But for Herb "The Flight" Lang, the most important stat is immeasurable: kindness.
For 18 years, Lang traveled to over 90 countries as a Harlem Globetrotter, bringing joy, laughter, and entertainment to millions. But his influence extends far beyond the court. Now a motivational speaker, author, and advocate for positive change, Lang’s story is a testament to how perseverance, gratitude, and human connection can transform lives.
On the latest episode of Bound for Greatness, Lang sat down with host Scott Jarvis to discuss his journey from small-town Brinkley, Arkansas, to the international stage, and how kindness has been the defining principle of his success.
From Brinkley, Arkansas, to the World Stage
Lang’s love for basketball was ignited at age 10 when he watched his hometown high school team nearly clinch a state championship. Seeing local players go on to earn college scholarships opened his eyes to what was possible.
“I realized these guys from my town were getting an education, eating for free in the cafeteria, and playing basketball every day. That made an impact on me,” Lang recalls.
It was a moment that set the foundation for his own success. With the guidance of mentors, coaches, and educators, Lang excelled in both academics and athletics, earning a basketball scholarship to Centenary College.
His time there was marked not only by his skills on the court but also by his character. “Kindness got me into every single door I’ve ever been in,” Lang emphasized.
The Globetrotter Life: Lessons from the Road
Lang's path to the Harlem Globetrotters was anything but conventional. After finishing college, he worked as a personal trainer making just $7 an hour. A roommate who attended a Globetrotters game suggested that Lang try out. Initially dismissing the idea, Lang eventually sent in a video—and it changed his life forever.
That decision led to an 18-year career with one of basketball’s most beloved organizations, playing in packed arenas, meeting world leaders, and even participating in The Amazing Race three times.
But it wasn’t just about basketball tricks and slam dunks. The Globetrotters taught Lang the power of human connection.
“The biggest lesson I learned from traveling the world is that we are more alike than we are different,” he says. “People want joy, they want peace. The negative things we see—so much of that is passed down. But when you actually meet people, you realize kindness is universal.”
The 8-Second Rule: Why Kindness Wins
One of Lang’s core beliefs is that it only takes eight seconds to change someone’s day.
“Say hello. Offer assistance. Show kindness. You never know what someone is going through, and that one small moment could mean everything to them,” Lang explains.
He credits his success to those small, meaningful moments, from the teacher who promised him a handshake with Bill Clinton if he learned all the U.S. presidents to the coach who entered him into the 1998 college slam dunk contest, which ultimately led to his big break.
These moments remind him that people will always remember how you made them feel.
Lessons from The Amazing Race
Competing on The Amazing Race—not once, but three times—gave Lang a whole new perspective on resilience. Unlike his travels with the Globetrotters, where everything was planned, the race threw curveballs at every turn.
“You only know where you’re going when you rip open that clue,” Lang laughs. “It forces you to think on the fly, work under pressure, and trust the people around you.”
His biggest takeaway? You can’t quit.
Lang’s team, known for their sportsmanship and positive attitudes, became fan favorites and were invited back multiple times. He attributes that to one thing: gratitude.
“After every season, I wrote a thank-you letter to the production team. It’s something small, but gratitude goes a long way,” he says. “You never know who’s watching, and I’ve always believed in showing appreciation.”
A Legacy of Kindness
Now, Lang is taking his message from the basketball court to the stage. As a motivational speaker, he shares his experiences with students, athletes, and business professionals, inspiring them to embrace kindness, hard work, and perseverance.
He also authored "Projects, Popes, and Presidents", a book that details his incredible journey from growing up in government housing to shaking hands with world leaders and playing basketball with President Obama.
“I want people to know that no matter where you come from, anything is possible,” Lang says. “And the simplest way to open doors? Be kind.”
As he continues to travel and inspire audiences, one message remains at the heart of everything he does:
Kindness is free. It costs nothing, but its impact is priceless.
Final Thoughts
As the world grows more divided, Lang’s message is one we all need to hear. Whether on the basketball court, a reality TV show, or a speaking stage, he proves that kindness, humility, and perseverance can truly change lives.
To connect with Herb "The Flight" Lang, visit iamherblang.com or follow him on Instagram @datrotter4.
Let’s take a page from Herb’s playbook and make the world a better place—one act of kindness at a time.
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