The Curious Tale of King Spud: College Sports' Most Elusive Trophy

The Search for King Spud

Adventure often hides in the most unexpected places. For many, it resides within the pages of college sports lore, but this tale begins on a lonely stretch of I-84 in Idaho, where a peculiar story of King Spud, one of the ugliest rivalry trophies in collegiate athletics, began to unfold.

In 2023, Maclane Westbrook, a student at Idaho State University, found himself in a humorous predicament after being pulled over for speeding. Accused of obliviously speeding while carrying King Spud—a silver potato adorned with a crown—Westbrook used this absurdity to deflect a ticket. This was not just an ordinary trophy; it was the embodiment of a lost rivalry steeped in tradition and bizarre history.

The Origins of King Spud

Commissioned in the early 1960s by the Moscow Chamber of Commerce, King Spud was meant to symbolize the rivalry between the University of Idaho and Idaho State University. Winning the trophy would digitally transmit status, embodying regional pride. However, its origins are as quirky as its design.

Initially, both schools largely ignored the trophy, which rarely captured their spirit, resulting in its quiet disappearance around 1979. Alford, a former sports information director at Idaho State, recalls that even when it existed, it seemed unwelcome, lugging a weight of 25 pounds. It became more of a nuisance than a badge of honor.

“The trophy should go to the losing team, not the winning one. It's the ugliest thing I've ever seen.” — Lynn Archibald, former Idaho State coach

Rediscovering the Legend

After years spent in obscurity, a vibrant new life started to breathe into King Spud thanks to social media and local initiatives. A Twitter account celebrating King Spud reignited interest, awakening nostalgia in students who had previously viewed the potato as just a relic.

Westbrook, harboring a newfound appreciation for the statue, initiated efforts to resurrect King Spud, rallying his fellow students to restore it as the centerpiece of the rivalry. Their commitment transformed King Spud from a forgotten artifact into a living piece of lore associated with pride and competitiveness.

Rivalry in Full Swing

In a clever twist, the King Spud trophy was reintroduced in a new format. Instead of being tethered solely to men's basketball, it was resurrected to represent all four annual men's and women's basketball matches. The stakes were high, encouraging both schools to lock horns in a spirited competition.

Last season saw the rules in play as the Idaho State women's team faced an intense basketball showdown against the University of Idaho. It was a moment where the stakes extended beyond the scoreboard, staying true to the heart of rivalry sports.

A Lasting Legacy

The original King Spud trophy might remain lost—perhaps resting in a landfill or gathering dust in a forgotten storage unit. Yet its delightful absurdity has sparked discussions about the significance of quirky rivalry trophies in college sports. They encapsulate more than just victory; they embody traditions, stories, and connections that bridge generations.

Westbrook's journey not only revived King Spud but also tapped into a thread of identity for the students—making them embrace their peculiar history. It presents a bigger picture for Idaho State, illustrating how even the most unconventional possessions can stir passionate emotions and foster a sense of belonging.

The Future of Rivalry

This curious adventure for the resilience of King Spud has resulted in renewed interest in rivalry culture at both institutions. As we witness the resurrection of not just this peculiar trophy but also the spirit it represents, the narrative offers a gentle reminder: rivalries run deeper than the games; they connect communities.

Join the Hunt

While the original trophy remains elusive, the quest for King Spud has rekindled enthusiasm and engagement in local communities. We invite you to share your thoughts and memories about rivalry trophies or even vacations to Idaho's hidden gems. Turn the page on King Spud's story—there's always more to explore.