Every great franchise has a story. Ours begins with a city that has always known how to rise.

For generations, Johnstown, Pennsylvania has been defined by strength, determination, and the unwavering spirit of its people. Built through hard work, industry, and community, Johnstown has faced moments that tested its character — but each time, the city answered with resilience and a commitment to rebuild.

In 1936, Johnstown faced one of its greatest challenges when devastating flooding impacted the community. The flood tested the city, but it did not define it. What defined Johnstown was the response that followed: neighbors supporting neighbors, families rebuilding, workers restoring, and a community refusing to be defeated.

That spirit became the foundation of the Johnstown 36ers.

 The Meaning Behind 36

The number 36 represents more than a year in history. It represents the character of a community.

It represents:

Resilience — the ability to overcome challenges.
Strength — the foundation built by generations before us.
Unity — the belief that a community is strongest when it stands together.
Rise — the commitment to always move forward.

The Johnstown 36ers carry that legacy onto the basketball court by representing the same qualities that have defined this city for generations: toughness, teamwork, and perseverance.

 A New Chapter Begins

The Johnstown 36ers story began as the Atlantic City Seagulls, a professional basketball organization built through dedication, competition, and a passion for the game.

As the franchise looked toward the future, the organization recognized an opportunity to create something deeper — a team identity that connected directly with the people, history, and culture of its new home.

The move from Atlantic City to Johnstown was more than a relocation.

It was a transformation.

The Seagulls represented where the journey began.

The Johnstown 36ers represent where the journey continues.

A new name.
A new city.
A new era.

 Built For Johnstown. Built With Johnstown.

The Johnstown 36ers are committed to becoming more than a basketball team. Our mission is to build a lasting connection with the community through sports, education, entertainment, and opportunity.

Through initiatives including:

youth basketball programs

community events

player appearances

local partnerships

educational opportunities

economic development initiatives

the 36ers will work to create meaningful experiences for fans of all ages.

The team’s home will include Legends Hall, a dedicated headquarters and community destination featuring:

the official Johnstown 36ers team store

team business operations

player accommodations

community gathering spaces

Legends Hall represents our commitment to establishing a permanent presence in Johnstown and creating a place where fans, families, and players can come together.

 The Rise Begins

The Johnstown 36ers are not just bringing professional basketball to the city.

We are carrying forward a legacy.

A legacy built by the people who rebuilt Johnstown.
A legacy built by workers, families, and generations who never gave up.
A legacy that continues with every player who wears the 36ers uniform.

From the challenges of 1936 to the opportunities of today, one thing has always remained true:

Johnstown rises.

JOHNSTOWN 36ERS

1936: The Flood. 2026: The Rise.

The Next Chapter Begins.