1. Garnet Army
The student section at South Carolina is known as the Garnet Army and can bee seen on game days dressed in camo. Garnet Army is home to the loudest and rowdiest fans inside Colonial Life Arena, so join in on their chants and cheers to propel the Gamecocks to victory.
2. Basketball Hall of Fame
Stop by the University of South Carolina Basketball Hall of Fame inside Colonial Life Arena to learn more about the Gamecocks illustrious basketball history. The Hall of Fame features tributes to all of the best players and moments in Gamecocks history making it a must see for South Carolina fans everywhere.
3. Sir Big Spur
The live mascot at South Carolina games goes back to when Eric Hyman took over as athletic director in 2005 and was looking for a way to add excitement to the Gamecock gameday experience. Someone mentioned that a fan had been bringing a live rooster to Gamecock baseball games and the rest is history.
4. Gamecock Statue
In the main lobby is a unique Gamecock statue that everyone should take a peek at as they enter the arena. The one of a kind piece of art is one of many things to see as you enter the arena, so keep your eyes peeled for it.
5. Banners
The Gamecocks have numerous banners hanging from the rafters of Colonial Life Arena honoring the program’s many accomplishments. Take a second to enjoy the banners and remember your favorite Gamecocks memories.
6. Cocky
Cocky was “born” in 1980 when he took over for his dad, Big Spur, at South Carolina athletic events. He’s become one of the most recognizable mascots in college football and is a part of the Gamecock tradition, so keep an eye out for at the game.
7. South Carolina-Clemson Rivalry
Unlike other college basketball rivalries the rivalry between Clemson and South Carolina runs much deeper than the hardwood. The two schools were founded 88 years apart as Clemson was established to satisfy the agrarian movement’s request for more agricultural education after South Carolina refused to expand their agriculture program. On the court, the two teams have met 167 times with the Gamecocks holding a 90-77 lead, so don’t miss it when Clemson comes to town.
8. Sandstorm
“Sandstorm” was first played at Williams-Brice on a day when South Carolina was on the verge of upsetting the No. 4 ranked Ole Miss Rebels.The Gamecocks defense was on top of its game that day, and the crowd was into it. All of a sudden, “Sandstorm” hit the speakers, and the place went crazy. A tradition was born in an instant. Now, “Sandstorm” is played at a variety of Game Cock sporting events, so go crazy when you hear this tune.
