Savannah Bananas Bring Baseball to Life with Viral Entertainment

SAVANNAH, Georgia — The Savannah Bananas are redefining baseball with their explosive combination of athleticism and entertainment. On April 11, 2025, the team welcomed college football star Travis Hunter, the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner, at their game in Savannah, where he captivated the crowd with a ceremonial first pitch and a choreographed celebration.

Hunter, recognized as a once-in-a-generation talent, sported a custom Bananas jersey as he threw the first pitch, igniting excitement among the fans. Following a run scored by the Bananas, Hunter joined the team’s dance squad in a routine set to Deion Sanders‘ “Halftime,” culminating in a backflip that left the audience in awe.

This event showcased not only Hunter’s athletic versatility but also highlighted the unique entertainment value the Bananas bring to their games. Known for their viral performances reminiscent of the Harlem Globetrotters, the Savannah Bananas infuse baseball with comedic acrobatics and lively dances, establishing themselves as a national sensation.

Team owner Jesse Cole has made it his mission to transform the traditional baseball experience. “If I’m bored, there’s gotta be other people that are probably bored with baseball as well,” Cole says, reflecting on his vision behind the creation of “Banana Ball,” a dynamic twist on the classic game.

The Bananas are not just playing games; they are performing shows that often sell out stadiums across the U.S., including iconic venues like Fenway Park. They are set to make their mark at Great American Ballpark in Cincinnati and Nationals Park in Washington, D.C., this June.

Hunter, who established himself as a dual-threat player in college with over 2,100 receiving yards and 24 touchdowns at Colorado, is drawing even more attention as the NFL Draft approaches, where he is predicted to be a top pick. His diverse skill set may lead NFL teams to consider which position best suits him, with Hunter expressing uncertainty in an interview about his future role.

In the realm of sports, Hunter’s star is rapidly rising. He noted the demands of potentially playing both wide receiver and cornerback at the professional level, saying, “They want to see how much I can handle, and it’s up to me at this point. It’s just me being me.”

With a lucrative sponsorship portfolio that includes brands like Adidas and Dick’s Sporting Goods, Hunter illustrates not just athletic prowess but also business acumen that can elevate a franchise’s cultural and marketing strategies.

As for the Savannah Bananas, theatrics like dance routines and trick plays make watching a game a truly unique event, transforming traditional baseball into an engaging family-friendly spectacle. Cole emphasizes that the goal is to offer an experience fans won’t forget, stating, “It’s about creating an experience that fans will never forget.”

In summary, both the Savannah Bananas and Travis Hunter are shining examples of how the sports industry is evolving. Their ability to engage fans with lively entertainment has set new standards within the realm of athletics, leaving audiences eager to see what excitement awaits in the next chapter of their journeys.