News
BIG OVERTIME WIN FOR THE ORIGINALS IN BENNINGTON!
Click here to watch the Herkimer Originals and Binghamton Bulldogs game from November 26th, 2022
Herkimer Originals defeated by Binghamton in battle of nationally ranked teams!
Statement in regards to November 12th home game
Herkimer Originals defeat Springfield!
Tonight’s Final Score From Springfield, Massachusetts is being brought to you by the Herkimer Diamond Mines!
More information from tonight’s game along with photos will be coming soon!
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Fowllow US on social media to get updates on everything going on with the team this season. The Herkimer Originals can be found at @HerkimerOGs on Twitter, @herkimerogs on Instagram, and on Facebook @HerkimerOGs.
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HERKIMER ORIGINALS SET TO KICK OFF THEIR SEASON
by Dave Warner
Suppose you don’t know who the Herkimer Originals are. In that case, they are a minor league basketball team playing in the Northeast division of the ABA (American Basketball Association), and owned by Scott Flansburg.
Flansburg is better known as ‘The Human Calculator’ and is the Guinness World Record Holder for the ‘fastest mental calculation’ after adding the same number to itself 36 times in 15 seconds. He is also an annual host and founder of The National Counting Bee, a fast-paced annual competition to find the fastest human counters.
The books
Flansburg said that when his foundation, the Herkimer 9 started researching the Frank J. Basloe book called ‘I Grew up with Basketball,’ he ran across an article by two brothers named George and Darril Fosty, who wrote a book called ‘Black Ice’ that rewrote the history of hockey.
He said the pair had been threatened in the early 2000s not to write a book about the origins of basketball, so it had been put on a shelf.
With the help of Flansburg, the pair published their book, ‘Nais-MYTH: Basketball’s Stolen Legacy.’
“From 1890 thru 1893, the game of basketball spread along a fixed route across the four states of New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. This ‘Basketball Road’ began in Herkimer and moved east to Little Falls, Amsterdam, Albany, Troy, Holyoke, and eventually Springfield. It also moved west to Mohawk, Ilion, Utica, Syracuse, Ithaca, and Rochester, ending at Cornell University and the University of Rochester,” the brothers said.
“Their book questioned the origin City of Springfield (Massachusetts) for basketball, instead stating that it had begun in the Village of Herkimer,” Flansburg stated and that “Lambert Will was the one that invented it.”
The writers said, “For many Herkimer and Lambert Will supporters, having basketball’s creation credited to Springfield and Dr. James Naismith is akin to a stolen legacy and a disservice to the historical record. These critics of the Springfield and ‘Nais-Myth’ narrative view the Herkimer-Springfield basketball debate as one that demands resolution, and this book is the historical analysis that demands a verdict, and the verdict is to correct the official record by proving that it was Lambert Will who invented Basketball, and the Village of Herkimer, with the support of surrounding communities that formed the game of Basketball.”
Flansburg said he traveled to the Basketball Hall of Fame, and not a thing is mentioned about Herkimer. “In 1956, Springfield and Herkimer battled in a room with representatives from everywhere to determine where the hall of fame should be.”
“In the end, Herkimer didn’t have enough money, even if we’d won it.”
He said, “There’s a picture that came out of a basketball team, a group of kids from the Herkimer YMCA with a basketball with 1891-92 on it. If Naismith didn’t introduce basketball until the beginning of 1892, what are these kids doing with a ball in 91?”
As they continued to investigate, they found holes in the Naismith story and physical evidence to support the claim that basketball started here first.
“For eighteen months, we did nothing but work on this. We have more evidence for our first game than Springfield does,” he said.
Starting a team
The Fosty brothers were in a meeting with Flansburg discussing the book and told him about the ABA and suggested he get a franchise to continue publicizing the story of basketball’s origins.
“I reached out to the owner of the ABA named Joe Newman. He’s been there for over twenty years, restarting it in 2000,” Flansburg said. “Now there are almost 200 teams in this league across the country.”
The name Herkimer Originals and its “hooped” logo were thought up by rock star and long-time friend of team owner Scott Flansburg, Alice Cooper, while they were playing golf. “He said you’ve got to call them the Originals. Then he hits his shot and walks over to the scorecard and writes Originals down and makes the O look like the rim of a net.”
Cooper said, “There’s your name and your logo. You’re welcome.”
Flansburg said that at first, he wasn’t sure about it, but it grew on him very quickly, and he brought it to the Herkimer 9 board, where they voted unanimously to adopt the name.
“Our nickname is the OGs, and it has really captured the essence of the story. The name and the logo say more than a picture that is worth 1,000 words,” he said.
The most exciting thing for Flansburg is to watch the players get involved in the community in the off-season. “They have basketball camps and are at different events promoting the team, the story, and just getting kids out there shooting baskets.”
“The ABA is all about entertainment, education, and the community, so we hope to put on some great games, but we know we’re having an effect on the community with the sport we love,” he stated.
Flansburg says that the Mohawk Valley has a ton of fantastic basketball athletes. “These guys are from local colleges and high schools. Almost the entire team is from the Mohawk Valley.”
Last year the team made it to the semi-finals, tied with two minutes to go, and lost to the team that almost went all the way. “It was a really great first year.”
This year
This year they’ve added several high-level ball players, so they have higher expectations for the team.
“Our goal with the Herkimer Originals as a team is to create a great product that the community celebrates. Celebrating local heroes in basketball. It’s tough to get much better than that. It brings out the families and friends and helps connect the whole community,” he said.
The November 5, 2022, game pits Springfield against Herkimer, and the historical significance of that is not lost on Flansburg. “This is the best rivalry that could exist,” he stated. “For the people who know what we’re trying to do, that’s as cool as it can get.”
The Springfield team will visit again on February 11, 2023, which is the week of the anniversary of the first game in Herkimer in 1891, a full year before Naismith.
“Springfield will be in Herkimer that week to help us celebrate the Lambert Will family and his invention. It will be quite historic,” stated Flansburg.
BLACK vs WHITE SCRIMMAGE
The Herkimer Originals are proud to announce details for the 2022 Black x White Scrimmage, which is set for Thursday, October, 27 at 7 p.m. at Utica Notre Dame High School.
The free, open-practice style event is open to the public as the team continues its preparation for the coming season! Come out to meet your Herkimer Original players and get photos and autographs as they prepare for the 2022-2023 American Basketball Association (ABA) season.
2022-2023 Promotional Schedule Released
HERKIMER, NY – With the 2022-2023 American Basketball Association (ABA) set to start soon, the Herkimer Originals are happy to announce the full promotional schedule for the 2022-2023 campaign which includes many fun, exciting themes, giveaways for fans in attendance, and opportunities to meet and greet with Herkimer Originals players!
The Herkimer Originals’ full promotional schedule can be found below. All game dates, times, and promotions are subject to change.
Healthcare Appreciation Night – November 12 at 7:00 p.m.
Come out to the Herkimer Originals game on Saturday, November 12th as we take on Quincy at Utica Notre Dame. Help us recognize our doctors, nurses, and all healthcare workers for Healthcare Heroes Appreciation. All doctors, nurses, and all healthcare workers will receive FREE tickets to the game with a valid ID!
Chamber of Commerce Night/Giveaway – November 26th at 7:00 p.m.
Sponsored by Herkimer Chamber of Commerce
Come out to the Herkimer Originals game on Saturday, November 26th as we take on Binghamton at Herkimer College. The first 250 fans will receive a special item courtesy of The Herkimer Chamber of Commerce.
Toys with Love /Ugly Sweater Holiday Night – December 3 at 7:00 p.m.
Come out to the Herkimer Originals game on Saturday, December 3rd as we take on Bennington at Utica Notre Dame. Fans that bring a new toy will be entered into a raffle and receive FREE Tickets to the game. Please note that these toys will be given to children this holiday season, it is imperative that donations be new/with tags, and if possible, in their original packaging. It will also be “Ugly Sweater” Night, all fans who wear their ugliest sweater will receive FREE tickets to the game and the fan with the “ugliest sweater” will win an amazing prize!
Family & Faith Day/Sunday Shoot Around – December 4 at 3:00 p.m.
Sponsored by ARC Herkimer
Come out to the Herkimer Originals game on Sunday, December 4th as we take on Providence at Herkimer College. All fans with a church bulletin from Sunday, December 4th will receive FREE tickets to the game with a valid church bulletin! It will also be “Sunday Shoot Around” where All children are invited to a post-game shoot around on the court with the Herkimer Originals players!
Educator Appreciation Night/Human Calculator Raffle – January 14 at 7:00 p.m.
Sponsored by The Human Calculator
Come out to the Herkimer Originals game on Saturday, January 14 as we take on Bridgeport at Herkimer College. Join us for Educator Appreciation Night to help us honor those helping build our future leaders. All school employees will receive FREE tickets to the game with a valid ID. All fans also will be entered into a FREE Raffle to win a FREE “Human Calculator” School assembly for a local school district of their choice!
Bring a Kid Day/ Military Appreciation Night – January 21 at 7:00 p.m.
Come out to the Herkimer Originals game on Saturday, January 21 as we take on Catskill at Utica Notre Dame. One free general admission ticket will be provided with the purchase of an adult GA ticket. It will also be Military Appreciation night as we show our gratitude to the men and women that served and continue to serve this country. All active and retired service members of the military and veterans will receive FREE tickets to the game with a valid ID!
White Out Night/Rivalry Night – February 11 at 7:00 p.m.
Sponsored by The Steet Ponte Auto Group
Come out to the Herkimer Originals game on Saturday, February 11 as we take on Springfield at Herkimer College. This is a marquee game when our “origin of Basketball rival” comes to town! It will also be “White Out” night. We are asking all fans to wear “White” as we look to “White Out” of the gym! This is going to be a historic game that you are not going to want to miss!
First Responders Night – February 25th at 7:00 p.m.
Come out to the Herkimer Originals game on Saturday, February 25th as we take on Burlington at Utica Notre Dame. Help us recognize our First Responders for keeping us safe. All first responders will receive FREE tickets to the game with a valid ID!
College Night/ Fan Appreciation Night- March 4 at 7:00 p.m.
Sponsored by Herkimer College
Come out to the Herkimer Originals game on Saturday, March 4 as we take on Bennington t at Herkimer College. All college students will receive FREE tickets to the game with ANY college ID. It will also be “Fan Appreciation Night” where there will be raffles and giveaways all game long!
If you are interested in becoming a Herkimer Originals sponsor please email HerkimerOriginals@gmail.com
Team roster, sponsors, and much more will be announced via social media, as well as on www.HerkimerOriginals.com
Stay Connected:
Follow US on social media to get updates on everything going on with the team this season. The Herkimer Originals can be found at @HerkimerOGs on Twitter, @herkimerogs on Instagram, and on Facebook @HerkimerOGs.
READY OR NOT HERE WE COME!
The Herkimer Originals, proud members of the ABA (American Basketball Association) are excited to announce their complete 2022-23 season schedule!
Following an exciting season last year both on and off the court, the Herkimer Originals are excited to announce the 2022-2023 schedule.
“We couldn’t be more excited to announce our 2022-2023 season schedule to the best fans in the American Basketball Association(ABA) who showed overwhelming support during our inaugural season,” said team owner, Scott Flansburg. “We look forward to an even brighter future of basketball and family entertainment this season”.
The Herkimer Originals will have 10 home contests this year, with 5 home games at Herkimer College and 5 at Utica Notre Dame High School.
The Originals 10-game home conference campaign begins on November 12 against Bridgeport at Utica, Notre Dame High School. A Marquee game on the schedule is February 11th when “origin of Basketball rival” Springfield comes to town.
Team roster, promotional schedule, sponsors, and much more will be announced via social media, as well as on www.HerkimerOriginals.com
SEASON TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
The Herkimer Originals, proud members of the ABA (American Basketball Association) are excited to announce that 2022-23 season tickets are on sale now!
A general admission season ticket will cost only $40, a VIP seating season ticket will cost $75 and courtside full-season ticket will cost $195.
“We take pride in offering great value to our most passionate fans. We are thankful for everyone’s continued support and look forward to a strong season ”Originals Team owner Scott Flansburg said.
To purchase season tickets click the link https://tinyurl.com/2p8v8x7m
If you are interested in becoming a Herkimer Originals season ticket holder and have questions please email brionc@herkimer9.com
Team roster, promotional schedule, sponsors and much more will be announced via social media, as well as on www.HerkimerOriginals.com
Stay Connected:
Follow US on social media to get updates on everything going on with the team this season. The Herkimer Originals can be found at @HerkimerOGs on Twitter, @herkimerogs on Instagram, and on Facebook @HerkimerOGs.
#RealFansRealPlayersRealFun #herkimeroriginals #herkimerogs #herkimer9 #CNY #basketball #mohawkvalley #upstatenewyork #family #comingsoon #fun #entertainment
Herkimer Originals announces 2022-23 home basketball schedule!
Following an exciting season last year both on and off the court, the Herkimer Originals are excited to announce the 2022-2023 “home” schedule.
“We couldn’t be more excited to announce our 2022-2023 season “home” schedule to the best fans in the American Basketball Association(ABA) who showed overwhelming support during our inaugural season,” said team owner, Scott Flansburg. “We look forward to an even brighter future of basketball and family entertainment this season”.
The Herkimer Originals will have 9 home contests this year with 5 home games being played at Herkimer College and 4 being played at Utica Notre Dame High School.
The Originals 9-game home conference campaign begins on November 12 against Quincy at Herkimer College. A Marquee game on the schedule is February 11th when “origin of Basketball rival” Springfield comes to town.
Team roster, promotional schedule, sponsors and much more will be announced via social media, as well as on www.HerkimerOriginals.com
Stay Connected:
Follow US on social media to get updates on everything going on with the team this season. The Herkimer Originals can be found at @HerkimerOGs on Twitter, @herkimerogs on Instagram, and on Facebook @HerkimerOGs.
Herkimer Originals Announce New 2022-2023 Slogan
Herkimer, New York, — The Herkimer Originals are proud to announce the launch of the team’s new brand slogan – “Real Fans. Real Players. Real Fun!” which will be used during its 2022-2023 season. Introducing this new slogan, “Real Fans. Real Players. Real Fun!” allows us to recognize our entire fan base across the northeast and the people who come from near and far to support the Herkimer Originals.
The slogan will appear on the team’s schedules, radio and television commercials, schedule posters, website, and other materials during the season.
The Herkimer Originals Semi-Professional basketball team will begin their 2022-2023 season on the road on October 30 against the Bennington Martens .
The Herkimer Originals home opener will be on Saturday, November 12 vs Boston’s 94 Elite at 7pm.
Stay Connected:
Follow US on social media to get updates on everything going on with the team this season. The Herkimer Originals can be found at @HerkimerOGs on Twitter, @herkimerogs on Instagram, and on Facebook @HerkimerOGs.
Schedule updates and much more will be announced via social media, as well as on www.HerkimerOriginals.com
#RealFansRealPlayersRealFun #herkimeroriginals #herkimerogs #herkimer9 #CNY #basketball #mohawkvalley #upstatenewyork #family #comingsoon #fun #entertainment
Basketball Buddies Program
Herkimer Originals Looking For Local Talent to perform National Anthem!
Want to perform the National Anthem at a Herkimer Originals home game?
The Herkimer Originals Semi-Professional Basketball is currently looking for 10 individuals/duos who can perform the National Anthem prior to the Herkimer Originals home games for the 2022-2023 season.
We are looking for singers, musical artists, or instrumentalists to perform “The Star-Spangled Banner” before each home game.
During the home games this upcoming season we will need a variety of talent to perform in front of the crowd for this time-honored tradition.
National Anthem performance opportunities are extremely limited and not guaranteed. Due to the volume of submissions, Herkimer Originals does not guarantee a response. All submissions will be reviewed. Should your submission be of interest to the Originals, you will be contacted via the information submitted.
If you or someone you know has the passion, talent, and enthusiasm to inspire our crowd and represent our team at the highest level email HerkimerOriginals@gmail.com and put “National Anthem” in the subject line.
2022-2023 Internship Opportunities!
The Herkimer Originals Semi-Professional Basketball team, a member of the American Basketball Association (ABA) is looking for energetic, professional, and self-motivated people seeking to gain real-world experience while positioning themselves for a career in sports business, where prior experience is looked at as highly desirable by organizations within the industry.
Game Day Interns will be responsible for working each home game while providing a memorable experience for fans.
Primary Responsibilities.
This internship will include game-related duties and responsibilities including, but not limited to:
• Participate in the promoting of all Herkimer Originals-related activities including, but not limited to, the distribution of flyers, posters, tickets, and sponsor packages.
• Ensure quality customer service for all Herkimer Originals patrons.
• Assist in the distribution of giveaways and promotional items.
• Manage fan data collection programs.
• Assist in the execution of game night plans including contests/promotions on the field or in the stands.
• Assist in Improving the team’s presence on Facebook, Twitter, and Social Media. Contributing on social media (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram) on a daily AND nightly basis, providing material across all three outlets
• Organize pre-game events
• Assist in team appearances with players in the community.
Qualifications:
• Must be able enthusiastic and able to keep up in a fast-paced environment for the Herkimer Originals fans.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Positive, outgoing attitude and willingness to learn required
• Must be able to lift 10 – 40 lbs. and stand for long periods of time as needed
• Must have own transportation.
If you or someone you know has the passion, talent, and enthusiasm and represent our team at the highest level email HerkimerOriginals@gmail.com and put “Internship” in the subject line.