UCLA Basketball: Pauley Pavilion campaign
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A quick update on the official tally for the Pauley Pavilion remodel:
Ross Bjork, senior associate athletic director, said the total in cash and pledges is approaching $59 million, about $5 million more than at the beginning of summer. That does not include additional money that Bjork characterized as ‘in the pipeline.’
The university hopes to raise $100 million in donations which, along with financing and student fees, would fund a $185-million upgrade for its aging arena.
Improvements would include an outer concourse, wider stairs, additional seating in the open spaces behind the baskets as well as new locker rooms, a VIP area and team meeting rooms.
The athletic department has been talking behind the scenes with large-scale donors and sponsors, Bjork said, and expects to announce more gifts as basketball season gets rolling next month.
‘We view basketball season as our prime selling season,’ Bjork said. ‘You’re going to be in front of people on a consistent basis. They’re going to be in the venue.’
A reception for potential donors and sponsors is being planned for November, he said.
-- David Wharton