Buccaneer fans have a chance to help Bucky make history with a third consecutive SoCon Mascot Challenge title.

‍

Two years. Two titles. Now, Bucky is going for the three-peat.  

The quest for three titles

Bucky, East Tennessee State University’s beloved mascot, is ready to make history as he aims for a third consecutive win in the annual Ingles Southern Conference Mascot Challenge.  

Ahead of the 2026 Ingles Southern Conference Basketball Championships in Asheville, North Carolina, March 5-9, Ingles is giving fans the opportunity to support their favorite mascot in the annual SoCon Mascot Challenge.

With bragging rights and a $2,000 grand prize on the line, Buccaneer fans must rally behind Bucky to help him claim the title for the third time.  

How to support Bucky

Leading up to the tournament, fans can vote for Bucky once per day on multiple devices to help him defend the title of Best Mascot in the SoCon.

Voting concludes following the men's semifinal round. This year’s champion will be announced at the winner-take-all men's championship game, where the top team receives the SoCon's automatic bid to the NCAA tournament. The game will be televised on ESPN on Monday, March 9.

The winning school will be awarded a $1,000 scholarship to the mascot's athletic scholarship program. Ingles will also donate another $1,000 to Hoops Against Hunger on behalf of the winning school.

Buccaneer pride

Bucky's success reflects the Buccaneer spirit that makes Johnson City one of the best college towns in the nation. Explore our vibrant community and region at etsu.edu/our-region.

Can Bucky make it three in a row, or will a challenger finally end his reign?

For more information and coverage of ETSU Athletics, visit the official home of the Buccaneers at etsubucs.com. For more information on the Southern Conference Basketball Championships, visit the tournament website.

‍