The Harlem Globetrotters of Baseball, otherwise known as the Savannah Bananas, have taken over the baseball world like no one else ever had before and have changed the way the game is consumed and their massive fans are evidence of that.
Here, we take a deep dive into a captivating introduction to world of the Savannah Bananas by looking into their history, how they run and operate, how they recruit players, the format of their games, and the response they get from the fans.
A Brief History
And it all started February 25, 2016, when the team was named, the Savannah Bananas.
The team, which adopted a rather unique philosophy when it came to playing baseball, started to become a top news story across the country and was soon featured in the likes of CBS, NBC, and Sports Illustrated.
While there was some initial skepticism, the results were unparalleled-200 games played, 200 games sold out for a brand-new, cutting-edge product.
The history of the Bananas is certainly remarkable, as they have made not just winning games but also creating an atmosphere centered around joy and creativity their calling card.
Novel Game
The Bananas play at historic Grayson Stadium in Savannah, the site of all 6 collegiate baseball games in 2020, and have used "Banana Ball" to create a 9-inning game with a 2-hour limit, making the fan the most important player in the game.
Formulated with rules and scoring changes to pick up the pace of play, the Bananas have truly set a new standard in baseball, both on choreographed player dances, outlandish walk-ups, and massive scoring celebrations.
Their games are not only sporting events but extravaganzas that marry athleticism with show business, somewhere between a Broadway show, the WWE, and the Harlem Globetrotters.
Player Recruitment and Roster
The Savannah Bananas, unlike typical baseball teams, recruit players from across the board, including former MLB stars, and pay them for their services.
The team has managed to corral its fair share of great talent, with former MLB players Jonny Gomes, Bill Lee, and Josh Reddick all stepping onto the field in Banana Yellow to provide a well-rounded roster that feeds into their whole brand of fun and inclusion.
The "Banana Ball" World Tour
The Bananas have made a year-long, 33-city "Banana Ball" World Tour across America, switching to a barnstorming model full-time.
This strategy has made their games the hottest ticket in the US - virtually untouchable at the original price, insane resale prices.
Their games are about so much more than baseball-and the action on the field which is enjoyed in an immersive experience set against the backdrop of pregame and postgame parties and a boisterous community of fans enjoying the game from the bleachers to the bases to the dancing base coaches.
Leading in the Sale of Tickets and Fan Interaction
Some teams come close, but when it comes to ticket sales, no one can touch the Bananas.
Their game day experience is much more than the game, featuring all-inclusive concessions, a rowdy fan wall, and a focus on making the game a lasting memory for all who enter "Bananaland" at the Historic Grayson Stadium.
They have a senior dance team and a youth dance team, they honor the "Banana Baby" at all of their games, etc. Their commitment to fan engagement is strong.
So in conclusion, not only are the Savannah Bananas changing this sport - but we are dominating this sport while also meeting people where they are.
Offering a handful of athleticism, entertainment, and community engagement, the Bananas have made a place for themselves in the sports world with one of the unique experiences in baseball.
The Savannah Bananas have advanced their way to the top, and they are now a sports entity to be reckoned with, as they take their show on the road and sell out stadiums across the country.
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