Posted by Kaylah Laval ’26
March 3 update: Thank you #SpartanArmy! On the strength of your generosity, we raised over 450 canned and non-perishable food items in the Ingles Markets I-26 Rivalry Series Food Drive in January and February! Not only did we make a big difference for Miracle Hill Ministries, but we also beat UNC Asheville to claim 3 bonus points in the Rivalry Series!
As the calendar flipped to 2025, the Ingles I-26 Rivalry Series roared back to life, reigniting the fierce competition between USC Upstate and UNC Asheville. Separated by just 65 miles, these Big South Conference universities battle not just for supremacy in the game but for the pride of their communities—and the coveted rivalry trophy. Last season, UNC Asheville edged out USC Upstate in an inaugural campaign, claiming victory by a razor-thin 31-29 margin.
The first events of the new year took place on Wednesday, January 15. In Spartanburg, the USC Upstate women’s basketball team pulled off a hard-fought 60-57 victory, while over in Asheville, the men’s team ended with a close loss of 92-93.
The Ingles I-26 Rivalry Series is built on more than athletic competition—it’s a battle that extends into the heart of both communities. Points are awarded not only for victories in head-to-head matchups across basketball, soccer, volleyball, and baseball but also for performances in conference championships in cross country, track and field, and women’s golf.
Beyond the scoreboard, the series emphasizes community impact. Bonus points are earned through initiatives like the Ingles Three-Point Challenge, where each three-pointer made throughout the season results in a $3 donation from Ingles to a USC Upstate-selected charity. Similarly, baseball and softball teams accumulate points through strikeout totals, with proceeds benefiting local organizations.
The spirit of the rivalry was put to the test when Hurricane Helene devastated UNC Asheville’s campus and surrounding community last fall. In a remarkable display of sportsmanship and solidarity, USC Upstate opened its doors, hosting multiple home matches for the Bulldogs, including senior night events for both soccer programs. It was a defining moment that showcased how competition can bring communities together in times of need.
One of the most critical components of the rivalry is the Ingles I-26 Rivalry Food Drive, where fans play a pivotal role in helping their teams secure additional points. Running from January 15 to February 12, the food drive offers each school the chance to earn three bonus points by collecting canned and non-perishable food items. Last season, these bonus points proved to be the deciding factor in UNC Asheville’s series victory.
USC Upstate fans can support the cause by donating at the following locations, with all contributions benefiting Miracle Hill Ministries in Spartanburg:
- G.B. Hodge Center Lobby (USC Upstate campus): Weekdays 9 a.m.–5 p.m. and on game days
- Ingles Stores:
- Store 37 (8650 Asheville Highway, Boiling Springs)
- Store 201 (2120 Boiling Springs Road, Boiling Springs)
- Store 204 (8004 Warren H. Abernathy Highway, Spartanburg)
- Store 38 (2795 E. Main Street, Spartanburg)
- Store 200 (4600 SC-9, Inman)
For both programs, this rivalry means more than just wins and losses—it’s about community, teamwork, and making a difference.
“The first year of the Ingles I-26 Rivalry certainly lived up to its reputation, with everything coming down to the final competition last spring. We congratulate UNC Asheville on their victory but are ready to even the score this year. A huge thanks to Ingles and Melissa Leavell for fostering a rivalry that’s not just exciting but impactful for both communities.”
– Matt Martin, Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics, USC Upstate
“Winning the inaugural Ingles I-26 Rivalry was a point of pride for our Bulldogs, and we’re eager to keep the trophy in Asheville. Every match and event counts, and we know USC Upstate will bring their best this year. Thanks to Ingles for not only supporting this rivalry but also giving us a platform to positively impact our communities.”
– Janet R. Cone, Senior Administrator for University Enterprises and Director of Athletics, UNC Asheville
Fans and supporters have a unique opportunity to impact the series by participating in the food drive and cheering for their teams throughout the year. As a thank-you, fans who donate will receive two free tickets to a future USC Upstate basketball game, with additional incentives available for Upstate students.
Stay updated on all things Upstate Spartans:
- Facebook: facebook.com/UpstateAthletics
- Twitter: @UpstateSpartans
- Instagram: @UpstateSpartans
- YouTube: youtube.com/UpstateSpartans