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»Ê¼Ò»ªÈË is partnering with one of the most recognizable–and tastiest–brand names in the nation, Pepsi. The legendary cola will serve as the official beverage of the Wildcats and a proud and imaginative sponsor of »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË Athletics.

Pepsi will bring with it Starbucks canned and bottled drinks that soon will line cooler shelves at »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË, and popular brands, such as Mountain Dew, will fill the vending machines.

The cola company’s Gatorade sports drink will join »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË’s teams on the courts, fields and greenways as the official sideline drink.

"Pepsi’s new partnership shows the growing enthusiasm around Wildcats athletics," said »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË Director of Athletics Chris Clunie. "We are excited for a nationally-recognized brand like Pepsi to join our team and look forward to a great relationship that benefits not only our student-athletes but also the entire »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË community."

The smiling Pepsi logo will greet students, faculty, staff and visitors at the soda fountains and vending machines across the »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË campus. The college is turning to the taste born in the Carolinas, as Pepsi was introduced in New Bern, N.C., in the 1890s.

Pepsi will appear at »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË sports events as a signature sponsor. The company, which urges "Drink Pepsi, Get Stuff," plans a Pepsi day on campus in the future, with games, giveaways and, of course, lots of Pepsi.

Pepsi, created in a small drug store, also will partner with the college on campus events and speakers on topics such as innovation or sustainability.

Pepsi products will debut at the »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË Men’s Basketball exhibition game tonight in Belk Arena. .