Students from Buncombe County Schools recently experienced the excitement of college athletics during a field trip to the Southern Conference Basketball Tournament (SoCon).
The atmosphere inside the Harrah's Cherokee Center was electric as students and staff cheered on their favorite teams competing in the fast-paced tournament games. For many students, it was their first time experiencing a live college basketball game, and the energy of the crowd made it unforgettable.

Beyond the action on the court, students were treated to a full game-day experience. Performances by spirited college dance teams and cheerleaders kept the crowd energized during timeouts, while the powerful sounds of college marching bands echoed throughout the arena.
Some students even had a chance to step onto the court themselves. During breaks in the game, a few lucky participants were selected to take part in fun on-court games and activities, giving them a moment in the spotlight in front of the cheering crowd.

The trip provided more than just basketball - it offered students a chance to experience college traditions, teamwork, and school spirit firsthand. By the end of the day, students left with smiles, new memories, and a deeper appreciation for the excitement of college athletics.


