Nov. 13, 2007

PORTLAND, S.C. - The USC Upstate men's basketball team continued its Western swing with a trip to Portland prior to making the flight north to Fairbanks, Alaska, for the BP Top of the World Classic.

The Spartans landed in Portland and members of the team took in the Portland Trailblazers-Dallas Mavericks basketball game Saturday night.

Sunday's practice was energized as the team put Friday's loss to Utah behind them. The team, and several friends of the Payne and Sandago families, joined together at Eola Hills Winery between Portland and Corvallis. The team members met with many former loyal Oregon State-Eddie Payne supporters and enjoyed a fine meal.

Monday was spent at the Nike World Headquarters. Upstate, under the direction of head athletic trainer Sandy Sandago, is a testing site for Nike shoes. The team practiced at the Bo Jackson Sports Center before meeting with representatives from the Michael Jordan line and research and development team members from Nike.

Check back soon for a look at Upstate in Alaska!!

Spartans Take Portland Photo Gallery