South Carolina Gamecocks Switch to Nike for 2026: What Fans Need to Know

As of July 1, 2026, the South Carolina Gamecocks are officially a Nike school — the biggest change to the Garnet and Black's look in nearly two decades. The swoosh is now the brand of the Gamecocks, and the first Nike-made South Carolina gear is already hitting shelves.

The End of the Under Armour Era

South Carolina had worn Under Armour since 2007, but that deal expired June 30, 2026 and wasn't renewed. The Gamecocks were one of the last SEC programs still with Under Armour — rival Auburn had already jumped to Nike in July 2025. Now Carolina joins the majority of the conference under the swoosh.

Inside the New Nike Deal

This isn't a small move. South Carolina's new agreement with Nike is a 10-year partnership reportedly worth roughly $5 million in cash plus about $70 million in product, with the school also earning a royalty on net sales. Nike will outfit all 21 of the university's athletic programs — uniforms, equipment, apparel and footwear. Fans can also look forward to a refreshed look, including a revamp of the football and women's basketball uniforms plus an additional alternate football uniform.

What It Means for Gamecocks Fans

The headline is simple — for the first time ever, you can rep the Gamecocks in Nike. That means brand-new 2026 Nike South Carolina football jerseys in garnet, black and white, Dri-FIT Victory polos, and more of your favorite gear now carrying the swoosh.

Get Your Nike Gamecocks Gear at Upstate Tailgate

You don't have to wait — Upstate Tailgate already has the first-ever Nike Gamecocks gear in stock. Browse the full 2026 Nike Gamecocks gear collection, grab a Nike Gamecocks football jersey, or explore our whole South Carolina Gamecocks shop. Come try it on in-store at WestGate Mall in Spartanburg, SC, or shop online anytime.

The Under Armour era is over. The swoosh era is here. Go Gamecocks!