South Carolina State hosts Allen University on Friday for an exhibition that gives coach Erik Martin’s team its first on-court test before the 2026-27 season. The Bulldogs will use the game to assess rotations, chemistry and execution as they prepare for another MEAC campaign.

By the Numbers
  • SC State finished 10-22 overall and 7-7 in MEAC play last season.
  • The Bulldogs reached the MEAC tournament semifinals after beating Norfolk State 88-82, then lost to Howard 78-61.
  • In conference play, SC State averaged 68.9 points, 13.1 assists and 4.5 blocks per game, while shooting 43.9% from the field and 34.8% from 3-point range.
What's Next

SC State opens the regular season at home against Morris College on Nov. 2. Its nonconference schedule includes road games against Notre Dame, College of Charleston, The Citadel, Wichita State, West Virginia and South Carolina.

Bottom Line

Friday’s exhibition is a tune-up, not a standings test—but it offers an early look at whether the Bulldogs can build on last season’s progress in conference play.