Omaha, October 10, 2025
The University of Nebraska at Omaha has partnered with the Savannah Bananas to bring a unique Banana Ball event to Baxter Arena. Set for December 15, this lively baseball format emphasizes fan engagement, quick gameplay, and festive atmosphere, making it a significant step in diversifying the university’s athletic offerings. Tickets starting at $15 aim to ensure accessibility, with proceeds supporting athletic facility improvements. This event is expected to foster community ties and engage a broader audience, highlighting the university’s role in promoting vibrant campus life.
University of Nebraska at Omaha Brings Banana Ball to Baxter Arena for Community Engagement
Omaha, NE – In a fresh initiative to energize campus life, the University of Nebraska at Omaha has teamed up with the popular Savannah Bananas baseball team to host a Banana Ball event at Baxter Arena on December 15. This unique baseball format emphasizes entertainment with its quick pace, no-clock gameplay, and playful elements, drawing crowds from across the country. The event aims to expand beyond traditional sports like hockey and basketball, targeting a wider audience to foster community ties on campus.
Event Format and Appeal
Banana Ball stands out for its fan-centric approach, featuring antics such as choreographed dances after big plays and opportunities for audience members to join in the action. The Savannah Bananas, famous for their sold-out performances, are extending their world tour to this indoor venue, adapting their high-energy style to Baxter Arena. This setup promises an interactive night where spectators become part of the show, differing from standard baseball experiences.
The university’s athletic department views this as a key step in diversifying its offerings. By introducing non-traditional events, officials seek to create lasting memories that bring together students, faculty, alumni, and local residents. The December date aligns with the holiday season, potentially adding to the festive atmosphere inside the arena.
Ticketing and Funding Details
Tickets for the Banana Ball event will go on sale this coming Monday, with prices starting at $15 to ensure accessibility for families and students. Given the Bananas’ track record of rapid sell-outs during their tours, university representatives anticipate high demand and advise early purchases. All proceeds from ticket sales will directly fund improvements to UNO’s athletic facilities, specifically targeting new lighting installations for Baxter Arena to enhance future events.
Local businesses have stepped up as sponsors, contributing to pre-game tailgate activities and on-site giveaways. These partnerships not only support the event’s logistics but also highlight community involvement, with participating companies providing branded merchandise and refreshments to attendees.
Broader Context in UNO Athletics
This Banana Ball showcase builds on recent successes within UNO’s athletic programs. Just days ago, the Wear Black, Give Back fundraiser exceeded expectations by raising more than $1.4 million for university support, underscoring a growing trend of community-driven initiatives. That event strengthened school pride and demonstrated the potential for creative programming to rally support.
Students and alumni have already shown enthusiasm, organizing themed watch parties and social media campaigns to promote the upcoming game. These grassroots efforts suggest the event could spark a new era of innovative athletics programming at UNO, blending fun with opportunities for campus unity.
Background on the Savannah Bananas and Banana Ball
The Savannah Bananas originated as a minor league team but gained national fame through their reinvented Banana Ball style, which prioritizes enjoyment over conventional rules. Their world tour has visited numerous cities, consistently filling venues with diverse crowds attracted to the lively performances. By bringing this format indoors to Baxter Arena, the event adapts to Nebraska’s winter climate while maintaining the core excitement that defines the Bananas.
UNO’s decision reflects a strategic push to innovate in college athletics, where engaging younger and non-sports-specific audiences is increasingly important. The partnership with the Bananas aligns with broader efforts to make campus events more inclusive, potentially drawing in first-time visitors to the university’s facilities.
Impact on Local Community
Beyond the arena walls, the event is expected to boost nearby businesses through increased foot traffic for dining and shopping. Tailgate festivities will spill into surrounding areas, offering free activities and promotions tied to the sponsors. This ripple effect emphasizes how Banana Ball serves as a catalyst for local economic activity during the off-season for traditional UNO sports.
As preparations continue, the university is finalizing details to ensure a smooth experience, including enhanced accessibility features and family-friendly zones. The overall goal remains clear: to deliver an unforgettable evening that reinforces UNO’s role as a vibrant hub in Omaha.
Looking Ahead
With ticket sales launching soon, interest is already building across social platforms. This event marks a creative milestone for UNO Athletics, showcasing how blending entertainment with sports can create meaningful connections. As December approaches, the anticipation for Banana Ball at Baxter Arena continues to grow, promising a night of laughter, excitement, and community spirit.
FAQ
What is the date and location of the Banana Ball event at the University of Nebraska at Omaha?
The Banana Ball event is scheduled for December 15 at Baxter Arena.
What makes Banana Ball different from traditional baseball?
Banana Ball features a fast-paced format with no-clock rules, entertaining antics, and fan participation elements.
When do tickets go on sale and how much do they start at?
Tickets go on sale this coming Monday and start at $15.
What will the proceeds from the event support?
Proceeds will support UNO’s athletic facilities upgrades, including new lighting for the arena.
How does this event fit into UNO Athletics’ broader goals?
The event is part of an initiative to diversify programming, attract non-traditional audiences, and create memorable experiences that unite the community.
Who is partnering with UNO for this event?
UNO has partnered with the Savannah Bananas for the event.
What additional activities are planned around the event?
Local businesses are sponsoring tailgate festivities and giveaways.
Key Features of Banana Ball at UNO
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Date and Venue | December 15 at Baxter Arena |
| Format Highlights | Fast-paced with no-clock rules and entertaining antics |
| Fan Involvement | Interactive elements like fan participation and choreographed celebrations |
| Ticket Info | Starting at $15, on sale this coming Monday |
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