Sports
Jan. 18, 2010- While hanging out at UCLA's Pauley Pavilion last Saturday, I had a chance to chat with some fellow alumnus who are movers and shakers in the sports business world. One of these gentleman, a man who has been doing business witht the Athletic Department since 1976, told me the UCLA Alumni has a "plan B" to tear down the venerable old arena if Coach John Wooden passes away before they begin significant renovation. Contractors have determined it will cost considerably more -- about $300 million more -- to upgrade and renovate Pauley Pavilion than to tear it down and build a new arena. Furthermore, a renovated Pavilion will not have the superior modern design, accessibility and fan-friendly usefulness that a brand new Pauley Pavilion would offer. So why are they not planning to build a brand new arena? Many alumni members fear it would be an insult to Coach Wooden if they tore down the building he won 10 championships in while he is still alive. So, Coach Wooden, if you are reading this, we know you’re an honorable, humble man. Please remind the alumni that memories are forever and that you prefer UCLA having a new state-of-the-art arena.