Categories: College University AthleticsCollege/University News

Spartanburg Hosts 2nd Annual Ingles I-26 Rivalry Series Food Drive

Fans at a college basketball game donating canned goods for the food drive

News Summary

From January 15 to February 12, 2025, Spartanburg will come alive with the 2nd Annual Ingles I-26 Rivalry Series Food Drive, where the USC Upstate Spartans and UNC Asheville Bulldogs unite to benefit the local community. Fans can donate canned food items during basketball games and at Ingles stores. The competition adds a fun twist, with teams vying for bonus points based on food donations. The event highlights not just college sports, but the spirit of giving and community support.

Spartanburg Gears Up for the 2nd Annual Ingles I-26 Rivalry Series Food Drive!

Get ready, Spartanburg! From January 15 through February 12, 2025, the enthusiasm for college basketball will not only fill the air, but also feed the local community. The USC Upstate Spartans have teamed up with their rivals, the UNC Asheville Bulldogs, for the 2nd Annual Ingles I-26 Rivalry Series Food Drive. This is not just a battle on the court, but an opportunity to show community spirit by donating canned and non-perishable food items!

The Exciting Basketball Showdown

The thrilling competition kicks off with a series of basketball games that fans won’t want to miss. The Lady Spartans will hit the court at the G.B. Hodge Center in Spartanburg at 6:00 PM, while the men’s teams will clash at Kimmel Arena in Asheville starting at 6:30 PM. With the UNC Asheville Bulldogs boasting an impressive record of 11-6, currently holding a 2-1 position in the Big South, and the South Carolina Upstate Spartans looking to improve their 5-13 record with a 1-2 standing in the same conference, every point—and every can of food—will count!

Join the Food Drive Fun

Ingles locations around town, near the self-checkout area. Not only will your donations help those in need through Miracle Hill Ministries in Spartanburg, but there’s also a little extra incentive to get involved!

The Spartans are in for a friendly competition with the Bulldogs. If USC Upstate collects more food items than UNC Asheville by February 12, they’ll earn a delightful three bonus points. So, every single can makes a difference! And hey, donating could score you something special—donors will have a chance to win two free tickets to a future USC Upstate basketball game!

Incentives for Upstate Students

Students at USC Upstate have yet another reason to pitch in! Additional incentives await for those who contribute at the Hodge Center. Whether you’re a lifelong Spartans supporter or just looking to help out your neighbors, now’s the perfect time to show your team spirit and your community spirit!

Building Camaraderie and Community Support

With the energy rising and the community coming together, this year’s food drive promises to be an exciting event, blending the love for basketball with the joy of giving. Here’s to a fantastic rivalry series and successful food drive ahead!