The University of South Carolina could be moving toward a major change in its athletic branding. On Friday, the school’s Board of Trustees will vote on a new apparel partnership, potentially ending a nearly two-decade relationship with Under Armour.
According to an official announcement, after approving minutes from its previous meeting, the Board will first address an “athletics department employee agreement” for newly hired Deputy Athletics Director Wesley Mallette, followed by a vote on an “athletics apparel agreement.”
South Carolina has been tied to Under Armour since 2007, renewing in 2016 with a 10-year contract worth approximately $70 million in cash and product. That deal is set to expire on June 30, 2026.
But Under Armour has been scaling back its presence in college athletics, with programs such as Auburn, UCLA, Boston College, and Cincinnati all recently moving on from the brand.
The biggest players in collegiate outfitting—Nike, its Jordan Brand affiliate, and Adidas—are all potential suitors for South Carolina. Nike in particular has notable ties to the Gamecocks. Women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley has maintained multiple partnerships with Nike, and newly hired Athletics Director Jeremiah Donati previously oversaw a Nike partnership at TCU. Mallette also has Nike connections, having struck a deal with the brand and BSN Sports during his tenure as UC Riverside’s AD.
Still, Gamecock fans shouldn’t expect immediate changes. Even if the Board approves a new apparel provider this week, South Carolina’s uniforms will remain Under Armour until the existing contract expires. As the University explained, “Friday’s announcement won’t affect Carolina’s uniforms until the 2026-2027 school year,” unless something unforeseen happens.
The vote represents a pivotal moment for South Carolina athletics, as the Gamecocks weigh tradition, brand alignment, and financial strength in selecting their next apparel partner.
