In the year 2000, excitement was at an all-time high as state and local leaders began a grand experiment in conjunction with area businesses to create a league whose purpose was to develop a baseball league for the enjoyment of the state's residents. With unprecedented buy-in from cities across the state, the NCBL was born. The league was founded with 16 major league franchises located in the state's largest population centers. A full minor league system was developed from AAA down through Rookie League following the same pattern - the larger the population of a given city, the higher the level of play for the affiliate.
As the league was born specifically to cater to the enjoyment of North Carolinians, strict limits were put in place to ensure that the league remained true to that mission. All franchises were limited to no more than 10% out of state players. To assist in finding the necessary talent needed to draw from, exclusive arrangements were made with the state's 12 largest universities to serve as a feeder to the league. In addition, the 20 most successful state AAAA high school baseball programs were also approved to provide players for the new league.
Fast forward 100 years, and the league is flourishing. Remaining true to the original charter, the league has maintained all the franchises in their original locations. Indeed, the only real change in the 100 years of the league's existence is the occasional renaming of a major league affiliate. The league has developed an enduring legacy over the years. There have been dynasty franchises, all time great players, and record performances all along the way.
Next, we will take a quick look at the league and its structure.