Much of the team’s popularity has been fueled by social media, where several players have built large followings — including Bryce Grizzafi, a native of Morgan City.
NEW ORLEANS — The Caesars Superdome looks very different this weekend. Instead of the typical football setup fans are used to seeing, the stadium has been transformed for the world-famous Savannah Bananas as they bring their unique version of the game — known as Banana Ball — to the Crescent City.
“Banana Ball — we’re trying to create the greatest show in sports,” said Jesse Cole, founder and CEO of the team. “You start with the idea of how can you put yourself in the fans’ shoes — and how can you entertain every step of the way.”
Banana Ball looks very different from a traditional baseball game. The fast-paced format features trick plays, choreographed dances, fan participation, and constant on-field entertainment.
That approach has helped the Georgia-based team explode in popularity online and sell out stadiums across the country — often in seconds.
The Bananas will play two sold-out shows at the Superdome this weekend. Saturday’s game begins at 6:30 p.m., and Sunday’s show starts at 1 p.m. A pre-party will also take place on both days near Champions Square two hours before the games.
For many fans, getting a ticket was the biggest challenge.
“When I started seeing the Bananas, it just seemed so much fun, happy and just like screaming,” said fan Linda Benefield. “I’ve been just trying to get tickets, but it’s so hard to get them from the lottery.”
Much of the team’s popularity has been fueled by social media, where several players have built large followings — including Bryce Grizzafi, a native of Morgan City.
For Grizzafi, playing inside the Superdome carries special meaning.
“My earliest memory, I remember crying when Garrett Hartley sent the Saints to the Super Bowl in 2009,” he said, referring to the New Orleans Saints. “I remember crying with my dad in the living room. That special moment we had toward the Saints — and being able to play in the Dome is special.”
The former Southeastern Louisiana University player now gets the chance to return home and introduce fans across Southeast Louisiana to a completely different way to experience baseball.
“There’s an energy here in New Orleans that’s special,” Cole said. “People yelling for us — ‘Go Bananas.’ They are fired up, and it’s exciting to see. Our players know they need to put on a show like WrestleMania.”
Whether the Bananas return to New Orleans in the future could depend on the success of this weekend’s shows. Team organizers say the Superdome would need to invite them back for their 2027 world tour — though they note many other stadiums are already asking to be included.
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