Jackson Olson

Jackson Olson is a baseball player, entertainer, and social media personality recognized as a second baseman for the Savannah Bananas, a barnstorming exhibition team known for its high-energy, fan-focused approach to baseball called Banana Ball. Before joining the Bananas, Olson played NCAA Division I baseball at the University of Hartford, appearing in 161 games and posting a .288 career batting average. He contributed to the team’s first America East Championship and earned the America East Baseball Scholar-Athlete of the Year Award. Olson completed his final year of eligibility at Stetson University, where he pursued a master's degree in business administration, and played collegiate summer baseball in circuits including the Cape Cod League with the Hyannis Harbor Hawks.

With the Savannah Bananas, Olson became one of the team’s most recognizable figures, combining athletic skill with a performance-driven approach that appeals to fans both at the ballpark and online. The Bananas, often compared to the Harlem Globetrotters of baseball, blend traditional play with choreographed dances, trick plays, and extensive fan interaction. Olson’s social media presence has grown to more than 1.5 million followers on TikTok, where he shares baseball highlights, behind-the-scenes content, and personal stories, expanding his reach beyond sports audiences.

Olson has also addressed challenges related to mental health. During a Bananas tour, he experienced severe panic attacks that temporarily sidelined him from games and social media activity. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Olson discussed his experience and later chose to speak openly about his mental health journey, using his platform to raise awareness and encourage others to seek support. His openness has resonated with fans and teammates, establishing him as a prominent voice for mental health advocacy in sports.

Olson’s influence extends beyond baseball. He appeared as a celebrity contestant on season 35 of "Dancing with the Stars" on ABC and Disney+, paired with professional dancer Emma Slater. The casting generated discussion about his background with a dancing baseball team, but Olson approached the opportunity with humor and professionalism. As the Savannah Bananas expand their reach to Major League Baseball and football stadiums nationwide, Olson exemplifies how modern athletes engage audiences through athletic performance, digital media, and authentic storytelling.