One of the must-do experiences for any UCLA student is attending a men’s basketball game in historic Pauley Pavilion. This year Pauley Pavilion underwent an almost 2 year, 180$ million renovation without sacrificing the original structure, making it seem brand new and historic at the same time. There was a lot of hype surrounding the UCLA men’s basketball team after pulling in the #1 recruiting class, and one of the best players in the nation, Shabazz Muhammed and playing in the beautiful renovated arena. So far the team has backed up the excitement after beating two top ten teams. Not only is this year’s team good, but UCLA has had historically one of the best college basketball programs in the nation. After all, this is the home of esteemed basketball coach and UCLA legend John Wooden. Any student that attends a UCLA basketball game is witnessing history and excellence every time they walk into the arena.

UCLA students are lucky to not only to go to games in Pauley Pavilion but they also get the opportunity to sit as close to the action as anybody in the Arena in the court side seats known as “The Den”. However, these tickets are not easy to get, especially not for big games. In order to guarantee a seat, students start camping out for tickets the day before a game. It is quite a sight to see when hundreds of students set up tents and hang out next to Pauley Pavilion the day and night before a game. I have participated in many camp outs, including last week in preparation for a game against cross town rival USC. It is a great opportunity to hang out and bond with friends and other students who are avid fans of UCLA basketball. Some students brought projectors and played video games, while others chose to study or try to sleep. Regardless, the atmosphere at camp outs are very spirited, and should be on any UCLA students bucket list.