North Carolina State’s men’s basketball program is preparing to welcome South Carolina to the RBC Center as part of the 2026 ACC/SEC Challenge, marking the Wolfpack’s inaugural home appearance in the annual showcase.
A Milestone for the Wolfpack
The contest adds a high‑profile element to a slate that had been labeled as lacking depth, giving the team a chance to test its mettle against a program with a 2‑1 record in the challenge.
Historically, the two schools have met 47 times, with NC State holding a 30‑17 overall edge. Their most recent regular‑season encounter on November 23, 2017, ended 63‑61 in Raleigh’s favor, a game in which Brandon Costner contributed 21 points and Farnold Degand added 14.
Analysts such as Jon Rothstein and Paul McNeil have underscored the significance of the matchup, noting that a victory would not only mark the Wolfpack’s first win over South Carolina in the challenge but also reinforce confidence in the team’s early‑season trajectory.
Looking Ahead
Beyond the challenge, the non‑conference schedule includes games against Tennessee, Ole Miss and VCU, offering the Wolfpack additional opportunities to face strong SEC opponents and mid‑major programs before conference play begins.