Magic Johnson Throws Ceremonial First Pitch To Opens Up Gastonia Honey Hunters Inaugural Season

GASTONIA, NC – A historic night in Gastonia. Professional baseball returned for the first time in 25 years. Legendary NBA star Magic Johnson threw out the first pitch at the Honey Hunters game to mark the beginning of their inaugural season.

Caromont Health Stadium was full for the first game in the new “Fuse District.”

“This one was special because of what he [Team Owner Brandon Bellamy] has built. Also what he stands for. And then to see this incredible stadium,” said Magic Johnson.

The Hall of Fame NBA player’s company will provide the food services at the stadium. He congratulated the city and team on their success in bringing the vision together. He also thanked the fans for their support.

“Can you imagine again two guys who grew up the way we grew up and are now businessmen and it’s a beautiful thing,” explained Johnson.

With a packed house for the opening weekend. Fans were excited to have a hometown team. The team’s owner, Brandon Bellamy, is  the only African American to own a professional baseball team.

He says it’s been a dream and a blessing to see the vision come together.

“I’m feeling grateful,” said Bellamy.

The team and stadium will inject money, momentum and progress into a historically underserved area of Gastonia.

“It has been great for the city. It will be great for the county and will be great for the region,” said Mayor Walker Reid.

He says the Honey Hunters are only the beginning and there are plans for more development around the stadium.

The Honey Hunters play in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. Season tickets are still available.