ESPN and the Savannah Bananas are teaming up for a summer-long showcase of Banana Ball, bringing one of the fastest-growing sensations in sports to national audiences across ESPN and Disney platforms. The slate begins in April and continues each month through August, with ten games scheduled to air on Friday and Saturday nights on ESPN or ESPN2. All games will also be simulcast live on Disney+ and ESPN+.
The matches will take place in major stadiums, including MLB and football venues such as historic Fenway Park, scenic Camden Yards and Memorial Stadium, home of the Clemson Tigers. These locations aim to enhance the electric atmosphere that has become a hallmark of the Savannah Bananas’ brand of baseball.
“The Savannah Bananas have mastered the art of blending baseball with entertainment, creating an experience that resonates with fans of all ages, regardless of their baseball knowledge,” said Brent Colborne, ESPN Vice President of Programming & Content Strategy. “Their unique approach embodies two of ESPN’s key goals: reaching new audiences and inspiring the next generation of youth athletes. With Banana Ball showcased on ESPN and Disney linear and streaming platforms, we are confident new, avid fans will be created.”
Jesse Cole, founder and CEO of the Savannah Bananas, echoed the excitement over the collaboration.
“Our relationship with ESPN has been outstanding for the Savannah Bananas and for the sport of Banana Ball,” Cole said. “As the ‘Greatest Show in Sports’ makes its way to sold-out MLB, College Football and NFL stadiums, ESPN is the perfect place to showcase the electricity of the game as we near the launch of the Banana Ball Championship League in 2026.”
The summer series will kick off with a record-breaking crowd on Saturday, April 26, when over 80,000 fans are expected to pack Memorial Stadium at Clemson University. The opening trio of games will be held in football stadiums, followed by a stop in May at Nissan Stadium, home of the Tennessee Titans, and a June matchup at Bank of America Stadium, home of the Carolina Panthers.
Afterward, the remaining seven games shift to Major League Baseball stadiums, beginning June 28 at Nationals Park. July will feature games at Fenway Park and Citizens Bank Park, while August includes four games in just 15 days. The tour will conclude with stops at Camden Yards, Coors Field and Guaranteed Rate Field. Notably, the game at Fenway Park and the first at Camden Yards will air in primetime on the network.
Throughout the summer, the Savannah Bananas will face off against teams including The Party Animals, The Firefighters and The Texas Tailgaters.
Banana Ball, which first gained national recognition in 2020, is known for its high-energy, entertainment-driven approach to America’s pastime. Commentators Josh Talevski and Biko Skalla will be in the booth for each game, providing analysis and guiding viewers through the unique Banana Ball rules and format.
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