Early Sports in Charlotte

Beginning play in 1901 as an organized team, the Hornets were the first Charlotte team to use this mascot.

Invented in Springfield, Massachusetts in 1891 by Dr. James Naismith, the sport of basketball spread quickly throughout the United States.

Listen to an interview with Luther Kelly, whose grandfather was a player in the first game.

Charlotte was home to numerous textile mills, many with their own dedicated residential areas.  These mills would sponsor company leagues in various sports, including softball.

The Lance Girl Packers basketball team competed in the Charlotte City League.

Listen to an interview with Mildred Little Bauguess, who was a member of the Hanes Hosiery Mill's women's basketball team.