See video of historic moment.

I grew up watching the Harlem Globetrotters' cartoons and TV specials, wishing I could make one of those long trick shots that my childhood heroes made look so easy while having fun.

Guess what? All those years of playing basketball paid off. I had a YouTube moment Monday morning while wearing my new black and white Adidas at the Valley View Casino Center (formerly the San Diego Sports Arena).

I made a 35-footer on my first try, good for four points if I was playing in a game with the Globetrotters this year.

The Globetrotters invited members of the news media to generate publicity for the Feb. 25 and Feb. 27 San Diego shows and to create buzz about the four-point shot.

The legendary team, known for innovation, debuted the four-point shot last year, and is using it during games in its 2011 North American tour. An NBA three-point shot is from 23 feet and nine inches. The four-pointer is near mid-court.

I made my four-pointer in front of Harlem Globetrotter showman Kevin "Special K" Daley, who was our host, and more than 100 students from the Monarch School in downtown San Diego.

I was the first volunteer to try the four-point shot from among a half dozen reporters. Daley, a Panamanian who speaks English and Spanish fluently, put a little pressure on me when he asked the students if any thought I could make it from that far.

I was surprised to see some hands go up and that motivated me more. I felt the adrenaline rush as I stepped into the circle painted with the number 4 and launched a high, 35-foot long shot that rattled around the rim a little and dropped softly through the net.

The kids cheered.

Daley looked a little surprised.

At 5-foot-6, 155 pounds, I don't look like your typical baller -- but I am.

Well, I at least have the attitude.

I acted like I had done it before (I practiced for 30 minutes and made two) and raised four fingers just like in the NBA when players raise three fingers to signal a three-pointer.

"San Diego Red is in the house!" I shouted to my colleague Micaela Arroyo, who was filming, referring to our news site.

It felt that satisfying to make that shot because I love the game so much. Basketball kept me out of trouble when I was a young. Now it just keeps me young at heart and I have a trophy to show it. The prize for hitting a four-pointer was a basketball signed by the Harlem Globetrotters.

They're still giving me great memories.

Leonel.sanchez@sandiegored.com