Savannah Bananas Make History at Clemson’s Memorial Stadium
Who said baseball had to be boring? The Savannah Bananas kept fans buzzing at Clemson University's Memorial Stadium on April 26, 2025, in a night that blended over-the-top entertainment, gritty competition, and a crowd unlike anything Banana Ball has ever seen. The Bananas, famous for their zany spin on classic baseball, faced off against the Party Animals as part of their 2025 Banana Ball World Tour. The real headline, though? A mind-boggling 81,000 fans packed the stands—blowing past previous Banana Ball attendance records and making the event feel more like a rock concert than a traditional ballgame.
The anticipation for this game was sky-high for weeks. Fans, decked out in banana-yellow gear and foam hats, started lining up as early as sunrise for a shot at on-campus parking spots. Clemson's Memorial Stadium, used to high-octane football crowds, shifted gears to host a baseball spectacle unlike any other. Local authorities were on alert: roads like Williamson Rd., Centennial Blvd., and Press Rd. shut down at 1 p.m. to manage the incoming swarm. Every detail, even accessible parking behind Sikes Hall, was mapped out to accommodate the flood of attendees. Those arriving late had to settle for a bit of a hike—pre-sale parking evaporated fast, but free lots opened at 8 a.m. on a first-come basis.
Big Plays, Wild Energy, and Unforgettable Banana Ball Moments
The on-field action didn’t disappoint. The Bananas and Party Animals battled blow for blow, trading wild hits and fan-favorite antics all night. The crowd got into the act early, with a few lucky spectators called down for impromptu sideline games and, in a true Banana Ball twist, fan-assisted defensive plays. It wasn’t just baseball—it was a block party on turf.
Television cameras captured all the chaos, with ESPN2 broadcasting live and additional streaming options for subscribers on Disney+ and ESPN+. For viewers at home, it was a front-row seat to the spectacle: from jaw-dropping catches to Broadway-style outbursts between innings, complete with choreographed dances and even a surprise field goal try by Bill Loy. If you thought sports stadiums were only for home runs, Loy’s kick proved otherwise—echoing the unpredictable, joyful spirit of Banana Ball.
The game reached its peak with a tense final inning. The Bananas sealed the deal with a walk-off home run, sending yellow confetti cascading from the stands and players tumbling onto the field in wild celebration. The 4-3 victory was dramatic to the end, keeping everyone guessing until the last swing.
For those who braved the crowds and traffic, the payoff was huge: a unique mix of competition and showmanship that left thousands buzzing long after the last out. This wasn't just a baseball game—it was the biggest Banana Ball party yet.