Sports
Savannah Bananas Launch Face Value Ticket Marketplace to Combat Fraud
Montgomery, AL — The Savannah Bananas are set to launch a verified secondary marketplace for tickets, aiming to combat inflated prices and fraud. Founder Jesse Cole announced the initiative on Instagram on November 24, 2025, describing it as a fan-driven solution ahead of the team’s 2026 season.
Starting in February, the new platform will connect verified buyers and sellers, allowing fans to resell tickets at face value, typically ranging from $35 to $60. Cole emphasized that the market will prohibit markups, ensuring fair pricing for fans unable to attend games.
Over recent years, the Bananas have gained immense popularity, often selling out stadiums nationwide. According to President Jared Orton, there is a waiting list of 4 million fans eager for tickets to their upcoming tour, which includes venues like Yankee Stadium and the Caesars SuperDome.
“This is fans helping fans,” Cole said. He expressed concern over the rise of fraudulent tickets sold through unofficial online platforms. Cole recalled the distress of fans who arrive at gates with fake tickets, often being turned away. “It kills me every single time,” he stated.
The current ticketing system involves a lottery, limiting fans to five tickets each. The new marketplace aims to provide a safe way to facilitate ticket exchanges without additional fees. Cole urged fans to refrain from purchasing tickets through social media, as they cannot guarantee authenticity.
As the Bananas prepare to implement this new marketplace before the season, Cole added, “This only works because of Banana Ball Nation. Let’s all be Fans First and let’s win this together.”
