Preview: Gardner-Webb at South Carolina Upstate

SPARTANBURG, S.C. (Interstat) — The South Carolina Upstate Spartans will look to solidify their position in the Big South Conference standings when they host the struggling Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, at the G.B. Hodge Center.

The Spartans (12-17 overall) enter the matchup with momentum from a 76-74 home victory over Presbyterian last Saturday. Isaiah Skinner led the way with 14 points and seven rebounds, part of a recent stretch where the forward has been a key contributor. Upstate has shown resilience, with two of its last three wins coming in overtime.

Conversely, Gardner-Webb (3-26) is mired in a 10-game losing streak, last winning on Jan. 23 against these same Spartans, 67-65. The Runnin’ Bulldogs are coming off an 82-70 loss at Radford on Feb. 19. Guard Jacob Hudson has been a consistent bright spot during the skid, averaging 16.5 points over his last four games, including a 20-point performance against High Point on Feb. 14.

Despite their disparate records, the season series is split 1-1, setting the stage for a decisive rubber match. In the January meeting, Gardner-Webb edged Upstate by two points at home.

For Upstate, a victory would bolster its conference tournament seeding and provide a winning send-off for seniors on the final home weekend. The Spartans will rely on Skinner and backcourt contributors Karmani Gregory and Carmelo Adkins, who combined for 52 points in the win over Presbyterian.

Gardner-Webb seeks to salvage pride and snap its lengthy drought, leaning heavily on Hudson’s scoring punch. Containing Skinner in the paint and limiting turnovers will be critical for the visiting Bulldogs.

Tipoff is scheduled for 4 p.m. EST. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+.