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South Carolina becomes Nike school under ten-year deal

PUBLISHED Jul 1, 2026, 8:26 AM ET

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COLUMBIA — The University of South Carolina on July 1 officially began a 10-year partnership with Nike, replacing Under Armour after the latter contract expired June 30; the board approved the Nike agreement in August 2025 and university officials confirmed the transition covers uniforms and branded equipment. The athletic department, led by AD Jeremiah Donati, said surplus Under Armour inventory will be managed through South Carolina State Surplus this summer; several Gamecock athletes announced or expanded NIL arrangements with Nike in June, and the contract specifies provision of A'ja Wilson signature shoes in South Carolina colorways as part of the agreement.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

2007: University of South Carolina begins an athletic partnership with Under Armour.
August 2025: University board approves a contract to switch to Nike.
June (prior to July 1): Several Gamecock athletes announce or expand NIL deals with Nike.
June 30: Under Armour contract with the university expires.
July 1: University officially begins a 10-year partnership with Nike and plans surplus sales.

News Intelligence

The switch to Nike means new gear for Gamecock fans. If you're a fan of Under Armour, keep an eye on South Carolina State Surplus for deals this summer. And if you're a fan of A'ja Wilson, look out for her signature shoes in South Carolina colorways.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 5
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 5

Who Benefited

Nike secured a ten-year exclusive partnership with the University of South Carolina, gaining brand exposure, product placement opportunities, and expanded access to student-athlete NIL activations.

Who Impacted

Under Armour lost its nearly 20-year exclusive outfitting relationship with the university, reducing its local visibility, licensing revenue, and official product placement at USC athletic events.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 5
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 5
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Nike secured a ten-year exclusive partnership with the University of South Carolina, gaining brand exposure, product placement opportunities, and expanded access to student-athlete NIL activations.

Who Impacted

Under Armour lost its nearly 20-year exclusive outfitting relationship with the university, reducing its local visibility, licensing revenue, and official product placement at USC athletic events.