When Jesse Cole (LinkedIn) started the Savannah Bananas in 2016, few believed the team would become a cultural phenomenon. The former Coastal Plain League collegiate club struggled to sell even a few tickets in its first season. Cole and his wife sold their home, drained their savings, and slept on an air mattress just to keep their dream alive.

But nine years later, that dream has turned into a nationwide movement. With Banana Ball — an electrifying mix of baseball, showmanship, and heart — the Bananas have sold out 17 Major League Baseball stadiums, drawn over 2 million fans, and built a reputation as America’s most entertaining team.

And now, they’re going even bigger.

A 45-State Tour That Redefines the Game

On Thursday, Cole announced on ESPN2 that the Banana Ball Championship League will debut in 2026, expanding to 75 stadiums across 45 states — including 14 MLB parks and 10 football stadiums.

Two of those venues are among the largest in the country: Texas A&M’s Kyle Field (capacity 102,000) and Tennessee’s Neyland Stadium (capacity 101,000). Even smaller cities will get a taste of the spectacle, like Dehler Park in Billings, Montana, which will host just 3,000 fans — the smallest crowd in Banana Ball history.

“We were told it would fail. That it wasn’t real baseball,” said Cole. “But you know what I focus on? The fans who love it. We want Banana Ball to reach every corner of America.”

New Teams: Loco Beach Coconuts and Indianapolis Clowns

The league’s expansion also introduces two new teams with powerful stories and historic resonance.

1. Loco Beach Coconuts — led by Shane Victorino
Two-time World Series champion Shane Victorino will serve as the “prime-time coach” for the Loco Beach Coconuts, a team inspired by surf culture and Hawaiian flair.

“That island pride, that aloha spirit — it’s in everything I do,” Victorino said. “Banana Ball is about heart, fun, and bringing joy back to the game. This is a dream.”

The Coconuts will play primarily in coastal regions, promising to “bring the beach” to stadiums nationwide with a bright, tropical theme.

2. Indianapolis Clowns — honoring Negro Leagues history
The second addition, the Indianapolis Clowns, carries deep baseball heritage. Originally formed in 1935, the Clowns were part of the Negro Leagues, combining athletic excellence with comedic flair — often compared to the Harlem Globetrotters of baseball.

They were also the first professional team to sign Hank Aaron , one of baseball’s most legendary figures.

In partnership with the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, led by president Bob Kendrick , Cole revived the Clowns to pay tribute to the pioneers who made baseball inclusive and entertaining.

“The rebirth of the Indianapolis Clowns is historically relevant,” Kendrick said. “It honors a team that was at the forefront of blending baseball and entertainment — something the Bananas have now taken to new heights.”

Former NL MVP and World Series champion Ryan Howard (Wikipedia) will serve as the Clowns’ prime-time coach.

“They were rock stars before the world called ballplayers that,” Howard said. “Flash, innovation, community — that’s what the Negro Leagues brought to the game, and that’s what Banana Ball is all about.”

The Championship League: A New Era of Fun and Competition

The 2026 Banana Ball Championship League will feature the Bananas, Firefighters, Party Animals, Tailgaters, and the two new teams.

The season kicks off in February with 11 preseason games, followed by a 50-game regular season from April through September. The Banana Bowl, the league’s grand finale, is set for October 10, 2026.

Cole also introduced the “Equalizer Rule” — a creative twist where teams can earn extra points for executing more trick plays.

“We want every inning to matter,” Cole said. “This isn’t just about fun. It’s about competition, energy, and innovation.”

Fans First: No Price Hike, Just More Smiles

Despite skyrocketing demand, Cole confirmed that ticket prices will remain the same. The Bananas expect over 3 million ticket lottery sign-ups in the first 48 hours after the announcement — yet Cole insists the game should remain accessible.

“We’re not raising prices,” he said flatly. “This is about fans — that’s why we exist.”

Cole’s vision extends beyond U.S. borders, with plans to take Banana Ball global. But for now, he says, the focus remains on America.

“There are still towns across this country that have never seen Banana Ball,” he added. “We want every fan to be within a few hours’ drive of the magic.”

A Legacy That’s Just Getting Started

From humble beginnings to nationwide stardom, the Savannah Bananas have rewritten the rulebook on what sports entertainment can be.

Cole’s philosophy, rooted in Fans First Entertainment, has transformed baseball into a joyful carnival — one where the crowd cheers as much for a backflip catch as for a home run.

“We’ve been criticized every step of the way,” Cole said. “But we’ve built something that makes people smile. That’s what matters.”

And as the yellow suits, dance routines, and wild celebrations hit 45 states next year, one thing is clear: Banana Ball isn’t just surviving — it’s thriving.
For more Update http://www.dailyglobaldiary.com

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – When Jaxson Dart walked off the field at MetLife Stadium on Thursday night, the rookie quarterback didn’t just celebrate a win — he changed the conversation around the New York Giants.

In one of the most unexpected results of the season, the Giants beat the defending Super Bowl champions Philadelphia Eagles 34–17, snapping an eight-game divisional losing streak and registering their first victory over a reigning champion since defeating the Denver Broncos in 1998.

“Nobody really expected us to put up a performance like this,” Dart said after the game. “We just tried to play hard for each other. We’re not trying to make statements — we just want to win games. Tonight, we found a little bit of our identity.”

A Rookie Quarterback with a Veteran’s Composure

Dart, just three games into his NFL career, delivered a composed yet electric performance.
He completed 17 of 25 passes for 195 yards, threw one touchdown, and rushed for another — adding 58 yards on the ground.

With that, Dart joined elite company — becoming only the third quarterback in the Super Bowl era to rush for at least 50 yards in each of his first three starts, alongside Lamar Jackson (Wikipedia) and Jalen Hurts (Wikipedia).

His backfield partner, rookie running back Cam Skattebo, scored three touchdowns and rushed for 98 yards — forming a dynamic duo that might just define the Giants’ new offensive identity.

“We’re Tired of the Negativity”

Inside the locker room, the win meant more than just points on the scoreboard. The Giants, who finished 3–14 last season, have long battled the perception of being a team stuck in transition.

“There’s been a lot of negativity around here,” Dart admitted. “For some of us new guys, we weren’t part of the past. We came here to win — and to bring a new energy.”

Brian Burns (Wikipedia), the Giants’ defensive captain, echoed that sentiment, saying the team’s mindset is shifting under the leadership of its young core.

Right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor summed it up best:

“It shows the entire league what we’re capable of.”

Head Coach Brian Daboll: “Winning Feels Good”

Head coach Brian Daboll has struggled against divisional rivals, holding a 5–16–1 record since taking over in 2022. Thursday night’s victory, however, felt like a small redemption.

“Winning feels good,” Daboll said post-game. “A lot of coaches were sleeping in their offices this week. I appreciate those guys. The players gave everything they had — I’m just happy for them.”

Daboll has repeatedly praised Dart’s leadership and poise, calling him “tough, smart, and unshakable.”

“He’s not perfect, but he’s got that fire,” Daboll said. “He’s already a leader. And when you have a guy like that under center, you always have a chance.”

The Turning Point for the Giants?

The Giants were seven-point underdogs heading into the game, and expectations were low. But Dart’s command and Skattebo’s explosiveness turned the night into a statement — not just to the fans, but to the entire NFC East.

With two wins in three starts, Dart has already energized a fan base hungry for hope. His confidence, athleticism, and leadership have given the Giants something they’ve lacked for years — belief.

The next few games will determine if this was just a flash of brilliance or the dawn of a new era in East Rutherford. For now, though, Jaxson Dart has the Giants faithful dreaming again.

“We’re not just playing games,” Dart said, smiling. “We’re trying to build something.”
For more Update http://www.dailyglobaldiary.com

Annabel Sutherland is one of Australia’s most talented young all-rounders, known for her powerful batting, fast bowling, and match-winning temperament. As of 2025, Annabel Sutherland’s net worth is estimated to be around $3 million, earned through national contracts, WBBL performances, and major brand endorsements. Following her recent dominance in both domestic and international cricket, fans are eager to know how she built such an impressive career and financial portfolio at just 23.

Early Life and Background

Born on October 12, 2001, in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, Annabel Sutherland grew up surrounded by cricket. Her father, James Sutherland, is a former Cricket Australia CEO, and her brother Will Sutherland is also a professional cricketer.
From an early age, Annabel displayed exceptional athleticism and a deep understanding of the game. She attended Haileybury College, where her cricketing skills developed rapidly. By her teenage years, she was already representing Victoria in domestic cricket, signaling the arrival of a prodigy destined for greatness.

Career Highlights

Annabel Sutherland’s journey has been nothing short of inspirational.

• She made her international debut for Australia Women’s Cricket Team in 2020, impressing fans with her composure under pressure.
• Her breakthrough came with standout performances in the Women’s Ashes and ICC Women’s World Cup, where she played crucial roles with both bat and ball.
• In domestic cricket, she represents the Melbourne Stars in the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) and Victoria in the Women’s National Cricket League (WNCL).
• One of her career-defining moments was her maiden Test century against South Africa in early 2024, solidifying her place as one of the best young all-rounders in world cricket.

Her blend of aggression, athleticism, and leadership makes her one of Australia’s brightest future captains.

Sources of Income

1. Cricket Contracts:
   A major portion of Sutherland’s earnings comes from her Cricket Australia central contract, along with match fees from international formats — Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.
2. Franchise Leagues:
   She earns a substantial salary from Melbourne Stars (WBBL), one of the most successful women’s cricket franchises.
3. Endorsements:
   Annabel has partnered with prominent sports brands for apparel, footwear, and cricket equipment deals, significantly boosting her income.
4. Bonuses and Appearances:
   Performance bonuses, media appearances, and cricket events add extra layers to her annual income.
   

Net Worth Growth Over the Years

Annabel’s income has nearly tripled in the last four years, thanks to her growing international presence and endorsement opportunities.

Assets and Lifestyle

Despite her young age, Annabel Sutherland lives a balanced and grounded lifestyle. She resides in Melbourne, close to her family, and often shares glimpses of her fitness routines, travel moments, and cricket tours on social media.
She owns a modern apartment in Melbourne and drives a premium sedan, reflecting her taste for comfort rather than extravagance. Her lifestyle emphasizes health, discipline, and personal growth — values that mirror her cricketing career.

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