Savannah Bananas Bring Banana Ball to Clemson’s Memorial Stadium

CLEMSON, S.C. — The Savannah Bananas are set to host a game of Banana Ball at Clemson University’s Memorial Stadium on Saturday, April 26. The matchup against the Party Animals will kick off at 7 p.m. ET and is expected to draw a record crowd of over 80,000 fans, marking a significant milestone for the stadium.

Traffic and parking around Memorial Stadium will be heavily impacted due to the event. Road closures will begin prior to the game. Specific parking zones include Zones B, C, I, D, E, F, G, H, as well as ADA Parking in Zones A and K. Visitors traveling from Seneca, Central/Easley, and Anderson have different routes to follow to reach their designated parking areas.

Brent Colborne, ESPN Vice President of Programming & Content Strategy, praised the Bananas’ ability to combine baseball and entertainment. “The Savannah Bananas have mastered the art of blending baseball with entertainment, creating an experience that resonates with fans of all ages,” he said.

The partnership between ESPN and the Savannah Bananas aims to expand the reach of Banana Ball this summer. The series will feature ten games across MLB and football stadiums, including historic venues like Fenway Park and Camden Yards. “As the ‘Greatest Show in Sports’ makes its way to sold-out stadiums, ESPN is the perfect place to showcase the electricity of the game,” said Jesse Cole, founder and CEO of the Savannah Bananas.

In preparation for the game, Clemson has made changes to Memorial Stadium’s field. Officials have transformed the grass into a baseball diamond with dimensions unique for Banana Ball, such as a 190-foot left-field wall. Kallin, a Clemson spokesperson, stated that the renovation will cost approximately $150,000 and requires 200 tons of clay for the baseball infield.

This historic event at Memorial Stadium marks the first baseball game ever played at the venue, and it is anticipated to be the biggest non-NCAA event since the George Strait Country Music Festival in 1999. Fans can expect Banana-themed beverages and surprises from Clemson throughout the evening.