SC State Athletics Invites Bulldog Nation to "Take Your Lunch Break with the Bulldogs" on November 2; Complimentary Admission and On-Site Food Trucks Highlight Season Openers
 
ORANGEBURG, S.C. (October 28, 2026) – The wait is over as South Carolina State University prepares to usher in the 2026–27 basketball season with an exciting opening-day doubleheader on Monday, November 2, at Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center.
 
The men's basketball team will tip off the afternoon against Morris College at 12:00 p.m., followed by the women's basketball team taking on Trinity College at 3:00 p.m. With complimentary admission to both contests, SC State Athletics is inviting Bulldog Nation and the greater Orangeburg community to be part of the excitement as both programs begin their new campaigns.
 
To celebrate the start of the season, the Department of Athletics is encouraging University faculty, staff, students, alumni, local businesses, and community partners to "Take Your Lunch Break with the Bulldogs."
 
The noon tipoff offers a unique opportunity for area businesses, University departments, and community organizations to bring colleagues and employees together for an afternoon of Division I basketball while supporting SC State's student-athletes.
 
Adding to the opening-day experience, Tropical Paradise, Randolph's Italian Ice, and Douglas Eatery will be on-site throughout both games, offering food and refreshments available for purchase. With convenient dining options and complimentary admission, fans can make SHM Memorial Center their lunchtime destination while enjoying the energy and excitement of Bulldog Basketball.
 
The afternoon continues at 3:00 p.m. as the women's basketball team takes the floor for its season opener. Fans are encouraged to enjoy both contests or join the festivities as their schedules permit, helping create an enthusiastic home-court atmosphere for each program.
 
Beyond the competition, Monday's doubleheader presents an opportunity to bring together the campus and surrounding communities in celebration of South Carolina State's student-athletes so wear Garnet and Blue, invite coworkers, family, and friends, and help make opening day a memorable start to the 2026–27 season.