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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

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WSU to close off Beasley’s upper bowl for men’s basketball

Washington State head coach Ernie Kent, right, speaks with Josh Hawkinson (24) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Arizona, Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2016, in Pullman. (Young Kwak / Associated Press)
Washington State head coach Ernie Kent, right, speaks with Josh Hawkinson (24) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Arizona, Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2016, in Pullman. (Young Kwak / Associated Press)

Washington State is closing off the Beasley Coliseum nosebleeds during men's basketball games in an effort to improve atmosphere despite lagging attendance.

The athletic department is also reducing season ticket prices in some sections.

“We realize this is a change from previous years, however, a full lower bowl will greatly improve the gameday atmosphere and provide a better experience for our players, coaches and fans,” said WSU Deputy Director of Athletics Mike Marlow in a statement. ”Additionally, we have reduced season ticket prices in many sections throughout the lower bowl, and when demand dictates, can expand seating options throughout the entire building.”

Beasley Coliseum has about 11,000 seats, but the vast majority of them were never filled this past season, when the Cougars averaged just 2,857 fans per home game. 



Jacob Thorpe
Jacob Thorpe joined The Spokesman-Review in 2013. He currently is a reporter for the Sports Desk covering Washington State University athletics.

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