North Carolina is a state where basketball runs through the veins—from the iconic ACC programs to the small-college teams that light up local gyms, every game tells a story of passion and community. Among these, UNC Asheville Basketball stands as a shining example of how a college program can unite a campus and a region, with fans rallying around the Bulldogs through every dunk, three-pointer, and hard-fought defensive stop. And when the Bulldogs face off against App State Basketball, the air crackles with intensity, as two Western North Carolina teams battle not just for points, but for local bragging rights and the love of the game.
UNC Asheville Basketball: The Heart of Bulldog Nation
UNC Asheville Basketball isn’t just a team—it’s a way of life for students, alumni, and residents of Asheville. The Bulldogs’ identity is rooted in tenacity: the name “Bulldog” isn’t just a mascot, but a reflection of the program’s ethos—never backing down, never giving up, no matter the odds. On game days, the campus comes alive: students wear maroon and white gear, debate strategy in the dining halls, and line up hours early to secure spots in the student section at Kimmel Arena. The arena itself feels like a second home—warm, loud, and filled with faces that have been coming to games for decades, from grandparents who watched the Bulldogs in the 1970s to freshmen attending their first college basketball game.
Beyond the court, UNC Asheville Basketball players are integral to the Asheville community. They host basketball clinics for local kids, visit hospitals to cheer up young patients, and volunteer at food drives—acts that turn athletes into role models. For many Asheville residents, the Bulldogs aren’t just players; they’re neighbors, friends, and symbols of hope. Local businesses join in too: coffee shops display Bulldog posters, restaurants offer game-day discounts, and shops stock maroon and white merchandise, turning the entire city into a sea of Bulldog pride on game days.
The Rivalry: UNC Asheville vs. App State Basketball
Few matchups in college basketball carry the regional weight of UNC Asheville vs. App State Basketball. Separated by just a short drive, these two programs share a history of competitive games and mutual respect, making every meeting a must-see event. The rivalry began decades ago, born from proximity and a shared love of basketball in Western North Carolina. Over the years, it has grown into something more: a tradition that brings families, alumni, and fans from both sides together to celebrate the sport.
What makes this rivalry special is the intensity of the fan experience. On game days, tailgates stretch across parking lots at both campuses—grills sizzle, music blares, and fans trade good-natured jabs before heading into the arena. Inside, the student sections are a force to be reckoned with: UNC Asheville’s “Bulldog Battalion” chants in unison, while App State’s fans respond with their own rally cries. Every basket draws a roar, every turnover a groan, and every final buzzer a mix of joy and disappointment—depending on which side you’re on.
But beneath the competition lies a deep respect. Coaches from both programs often praise each other’s teams, and players shake hands and hug after games, regardless of the outcome. This rivalry isn’t about animosity; it’s about pushing each other to be better. For players, facing App State Basketball is a chance to prove themselves against a familiar foe. For fans, it’s a chance to stand tall for their school and share in the excitement of a game that feels personal.
Game Day Magic at UNC Asheville
Stepping into Kimmel Arena on a UNC Asheville Basketball game day is an experience like no other. The smell of popcorn and hot dogs fills the air, the band plays upbeat tunes, and the cheerleaders lead the crowd in chants that echo through the rafters. When the Bulldogs run onto the court, the noise is deafening—students jump up and down, alumni wave old jerseys, and kids hold up signs for their favorite players.
One of the most beloved parts of game day is the sense of belonging. Strangers become friends as they high-five over a big three-pointer, and families pass down their love of the Bulldogs from one generation to the next. Grandparents bring their grandchildren to games, telling stories of past seasons, while college students make memories that will last long after they graduate. It’s a place where everyone is welcome, and everyone is part of the Bulldog family.
App State Basketball: A Fierce and Respected Opponent
App State Basketball has its own rich legacy, with a fan base that’s just as passionate as UNC Asheville’s. The Mountaineers bring a unique style of play to every game—fast-paced, aggressive, and full of energy—that keeps the Bulldogs on their toes. Their campus, too, buzzes with excitement on game days, with students and alumni packing the Holmes Convocation Center to cheer on their team.
What makes App State a worthy foe is their commitment to excellence. Like UNC Asheville, they prioritize both athletic and academic success, with players balancing rigorous coursework and intense practice schedules. Their community involvement is also notable: Mountaineer players host youth camps, participate in local charity events, and serve as leaders on their campus. This shared dedication to community and growth is part of what makes the rivalry so meaningful—both teams understand that basketball is about more than winning.
Beyond the Court: Impact of Both Programs
UNC Asheville Basketball and App State Basketball do more than entertain fans—they shape lives. For student-athletes, these programs teach valuable lessons: leadership, teamwork, resilience, and time management. Many players go on to successful careers after graduation, using the skills they learned on the court to excel in business, education, and other fields. For the communities they serve, the teams are a source of pride and inspiration. Kids look up to the players as role models, and local residents feel a sense of connection to the campus through the games.
Both programs also give back in meaningful ways. UNC Asheville’s Bulldogs host annual “Bulldog Basketball Camps” for kids aged 6-14, teaching them the basics of the game and instilling values like sportsmanship and hard work. App State’s Mountaineers organize “Hoops for Hope” events, raising money for local charities and supporting families in need. These acts of kindness remind fans that basketball is a tool for good, and that the impact of these programs extends far beyond the court.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Bulldog Basketball and the Rivalry
The future of UNC Asheville Basketball is bright. With a new generation of players ready to carry the Bulldog spirit forward, and a fan base that continues to grow, the program is poised to reach new heights. The rivalry with App State Basketball will also continue to thrive, as more fans discover the excitement of these regional matchups. Upcoming games are already being marked on calendars, with students planning tailgates and alumni booking trips back to campus to watch their favorite teams battle it out.
In a state where basketball is king, UNC Asheville Basketball and App State Basketball hold a special place. They remind us that the best parts of the sport aren’t the stats or the championships—they’re the connections we make, the memories we share, and the pride we feel for our teams. Whether you’re a Bulldog fan, a Mountaineer supporter, or just someone who loves basketball, these games are a celebration of everything that makes college sports great.
As the next season approaches, fans of UNC Asheville Basketball are already counting down the days until the Bulldogs take the court. And when they face App State Basketball, the arena will be packed, the crowd will roar, and the spirit of Western North Carolina basketball will be alive and well—proof that some rivalries are more than just games; they’re a way of life.