It's official: Nike is coming to South Carolina. The University of South Carolina Board of Trustees formally approved a 10-year partnership with Nike on August 22, 2025. The deal begins on July 1, 2026, and will run through June 30, 2036. Nike will outfit all 21 Gamecocks athletic programs with uniforms, footwear, apparel, and equipment.
Contract Details:
According to the binding terms sheet, the agreement includes the following:
- Cash Compensation: $5 million over the term ($500,000 annually)
- Royalty Rate: 15% of net sales on Nike products
- Retail Product Allotment: $70 million (retail) over the term ($7 million annually)
- Supplemental Product Allotment: $2.5 million (retail) over the term at USC’s discretion
- Performance Bonuses: Included as part of Schedule A
A'ja Wilson's Impact on the Nike Partnership
Nike will also integrate A'ja Wilson, former Gamecock legend and WNBA MVP, into its South Carolina marketing campaigns. Plans include A'ja Wilson's branded signature sneakers in Gamecock colors, and Nike will also explore A'ja Wilson's travel and team gear for women's basketball. If not fulfilled, the agreement specifies cash alternatives for up to $15 million.
Donati's Statement
South Carolina Athletics Director Jeremiah Donati celebrated the announcement with an official statement:
“We are thrilled to announce the future partnership with Nike, a brand that is built on inspiring athletes to reach for excellence with the latest and most innovative equipment and attire while championing the values of athletic participation, beginning in July 2026. We are excited to be joining with Nike as we look to continue to elevate our brand and compete for championships in the future. We are truly appreciative of the long partnership we have enjoyed with Under Armour since 2007. They have provided our student-athletes and fans with excellent service and apparel since the outset of our relationship and have been a part of many huge Gamecock moments. A special thank you to Kevin Plank for his friendship with the University of South Carolina and his leadership in the college athletics space. We look forward to celebrating our partnership history with Under Armour in the 2025-26 athletics seasons.”
End of the Under Armour Era
South Carolina's relationship with Under Armour began in 2007, when football first took the field in the brand. A department-wide contract followed in 2011-12. After nearly two decades in partnership, the 2025-26 season will mark the final year before the Gamecocks officially transition to Nike.
I’m over the moon happy about our new @Nike deal (there are over 30 years of history for me personally)….but I will never forget the contributions and the partnership that helped @GamecockWBB win national championships….thank you KP and @UnderArmour.
— dawnstaley (@dawnstaley) August 22, 2025
Fans will be able to purchase officially licensed Nike South Carolina Gamecock gear beginning in the summer of 2026.