South Carolina football players excited to switch to the swoosh in 2026

In 2007, it was Russell Athletics to Under Armour. Now, it’s Under Armour to Nike for South Carolina uniforms in 2026.

South Carolina’s athletic department officially makes the switch to Nike on July 1, 2026. The switch to the swoosh from Gamecock Football’s 18-year outfitting partner in Under Armour was a welcome one by fans, players and coaches alike.

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When head coach Shane Beamer broke the news to the team, it fired up quarterback Luke Doty and the rest of the team.

“Obviously, we heard talks of it. Everyone was excited,” Doty said. “Who knows, I might try to find another year. Might as well, right?”

Running back Rahsul Faison is another senior who is excited for his teammates, even if he won’t be wearing Nike jerseys for South Carolina.

“I was happy for them,” Faison said. “They were happy with the decision. If they’re happy, I’m happy.”

Sophomore linebacker Fred “JayR” Johnson, who has the opportunity to return in 2026, said with a smile he’s really excited about the incoming Nike uniforms.

That said, don’t get anyone’s excitement misconstrued. Under Armour has been and continues to be a great partner for the athletics department, Beamer said.

“Certainly grateful for our partnership with Under Armour for so many years,” head coach Shane Beamer said. “They have been a great partner and great friend to Carolina athletics and will continue to be over the next year til that contract runs out.”

Brandon Cisse, who comes to South Carolina by way of Adidas-sponsored North Carolina State, was also complimentary of Under Armour despite excitement for Nike.

“I’m happy for the university to have a deal like that. I feel like Nike is the best overall,” Cisse said. “But we got to wear Under Armour this year … We got to go out there and wear their gear, which I don’t got a complaint about that at all. I feel like they got great cleats and things like that. … I’m excited about the future to see that.”

The switch to Nike not only helps South Carolina’s current players. It is also a huge selling point for those looking to join the program in the future.

“Y’all see what I got on,” Nyck Harbor said while pointing to the Nike logo on his t-shirt. “Nike has been one of the favorite brands for a lot of people. That’s going to bring a lot of good things to us. Recruits like Nike more than most any other company, so that’s just bigger for us, big for the university. (I’m) glad they got it done.”

Additionally, the status of South Carolina’s apparel contract came up with recruits during visits.

“It’s something that’s come up with some recruits that we’re recruiting right now,” Beamer said. “During the recruiting process, That was one of the questions in my office with some recruits on official visits was what the apparel contract looks like going for looking forward.”

At the end of the day, Nike wanted to be with South Carolina, and Beamer appreciates that.

“I appreciate Jeremiah (Donati), Jeff Crane, and the rest of our administration for their communication in getting this done,” Beamer said. “I think it’s a great day for South Carolina and all the players I know and recruits that I know feel the same way.”

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