LOS ANGELES (AP) — UCLA is increasing by nearly a quarter the number of student seats in the lower bowl of Pauley Pavilion for men’s basketball games this season.

The plan announced Monday calls for student seating on the south sideline to run the entire length of the floor over five sections, while on the west baseline three entire sections will be for students only, including the band. A section in the upper level will remain student seating.

Athletic director Dan Guerrero says the school is excited to carve out extra premium seating for students. He noted that lower-level seating around the country is often sold at a premium to help cover the rising costs of college sports.

Coach Steve Alford heads into his second season in Westwood this fall after going 28-9 in his first year. The Bruins open the season on Nov. 14 hosting Montana State.

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