NC Gas House Gang LLC, owner of the Gastonia Honey Hunters, is countersuing the City of Gastonia, alleging “abusive and unlawful conduct” following the city’s lawsuit over the team’s unpaid debts. The Honey Hunters, who play at CaroMont Health Park, faced financial struggles since their agreement with the city in June 2020, worsened by the pandemic’s impact.
The lawsuit claims the City of Gastonia attempted to take control of the team and its Atlantic League membership, and even accuses the league’s president of trying to poach employees. Despite securing $1 million from an investor and finding potential buyers for $4 million, the team’s efforts were allegedly rejected, leading to financial difficulties and the city locking the stadium in December, which NC Gas House Gang cites as a breach of the 2020 agreement.
The Honey Hunters are seeking $75,000 in damages and the dismissal of the city’s lawsuit.
Established in 2021 by NC Gas House Gang LLC, the team won the Atlantic League South Division Championship in 2023, and they saw a steady increase in revenue from $2.03 million in 2021 to $2.83 million in 2022, however, in spite of their success, their massive debts and unpaid bills became overwhelming after the pandemic.
They currently owe the City of Gastonia for naming rights and utilities and have accumulated debts totaling approximately $4.08 million. The largest debt is to BKK Sports, alongside substantial amounts owed to the Atlantic League, the North Carolina Department of Revenue, and the Internal Revenue Service.
Their financial situation has led to their bankruptcy filing and exit from the Atlantic League, highlighting the difficulties new sports teams can face balancing on-field success with financial sustainability.
The Honey Hunters offered no comment about Gastonia’s lawsuit and the City of Gastonia offered no comment on the Honey Hunter’s countersuit.
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