The Bradley Athletic Department announced big changes Oct. 31 to the Bradley fan experience in preparation for men’s basketball season.
Developments catering to the official student section, the Red Sea, and Bradley student interaction will usher in the start of basketball season at Carver Arena.
The changes designate the lower bowl of section nine in Carver Arena as Bradley student seating. The 167 seats will be sold to students for $1 per ticket.
Additionally, a ticket station in Michel Student Center will launch Monday, Nov. 2 and will run twice a week throughout the basketball season during weeks the men’s team has a game.
Director of Marketing and New Media Brooke Buzard said making the student experience at men’s basketball games has been a high priority of the department.
“One of the biggest goals for Bradley Athletics moving into the 2014-15 men’s basketball season is to enhance the student experience,” Buzard said. “Students are the pulse of the college basketball fan base and there is no doubt when students are at games and engaged with what we are doing, it creates an incredible atmosphere and home court advantage.”
Buzard also said the Athletic Department has been fueled by the energy coming off of last season where record-setting student attendance was set.
“[Exactly] 1,334 students attended the regular season finale against Wichita State in February, a number which translates to more than a fifth of the student body,” Buzard said. “Using that momentum with where we left off, while also making some improvements in the accessibility of the men’s basketball game experience for students, we are really excited to see what the 2014-15 season will hold.”
Parking at the arena will be free for students who have at least three riders in their vehicle and have a valid Bradley student ID. Students with less than three passengers will pay $5 for parking. The lot is provided by Great Plains Orthopaedics.
The Athletics Department also announced Peoria Yellow Checker Cab will sponsor the Red Sea for the year.
All changes to the student experience will be in full motion Nov. 6 as the men’s basketball team takes on Augustana in the team’s only exhibition match.
For more information, visit www.bradleybraves.com.
