Washington is changing the experience of arriving at a basketball game this season. Its November 2 announcement introduces new security-screening technology at Alaska Airlines Arena, alongside changes to the video boards, band seating and pregame presentation.

For fans, the practical point starts before the entertainment: new screening equipment does not remove the clear-bag requirements. A familiar trip to Hec Ed still deserves a quick check of what you are carrying and how you will access the ticket.

Follow the new entry instructions

The athletics department’s announcement says Evolv Express Gen2 systems are being deployed at the arena. Fans are instructed to walk through naturally and leave personal items in pockets or approved bags unless attendants direct otherwise. Staff may ask for additional screening.

That makes the attendant’s instructions more useful than a routine remembered from another building. There is no reason to begin unloading everything automatically, but there is also no promise that every person will pass through without a follow-up check. Leave enough time to respond calmly if your party needs one.

After entry, fans will see a new Sundodger Studios pregame show and a revised center-hung video-board presentation with dynamic statistics. The band is moving to the upper rows of section 5. Those changes are useful context when choosing where to sit, especially for someone who cares about proximity to the music.

Pack for the policy that still applies

Washington’s current security and bag policy allows clear bags no larger than 12 by 6 by 12 inches, a one-gallon clear resealable storage bag, or a small clutch within the stated 4.5-by-6.5-inch limit. The policy permits one compliant clear bag and one small clutch per person.

Check the actual bag you intend to carry. A small backpack is still a backpack, and a familiar purse does not become permissible because you have brought it to a different arena. Moving essentials into the right bag at home is easier than reorganizing them at the entrance.

The same policy provides for medically necessary items and says guests with health or safety concerns can receive an alternative screening method. A fan who needs that accommodation should ask an entrance supervisor rather than assume the standard procedure is the only option.

Know which ticket you bought

Washington’s $26 “We Win, You Win” package is a separate purchase with specific terms. Qualifying home wins in the 2026 calendar year produce a complimentary digital ticket to the next eligible home game. A home loss before the end of December ends future ticket awards. Men’s and women’s packages are sold separately, seating locations can change, and the university says digital tickets arrive 24 hours before tipoff.

Check the package confirmation before assuming a win produced a ticket for your account. An ordinary single-game purchase and the promotional package should not be treated as interchangeable. If a promised ticket is missing, resolve the issue before the group gathers at the doors.

For any game, make sure the person presenting tickets can actually open them and knows who is arriving together. A brief check the day before is more useful than discovering an account problem while everyone waits behind you.

Families considering the separately announced sensory-friendly women’s game should use that event’s guidance for its specific features. General season entertainment plans do not describe every individual game. The best arrival plan combines the current arena rules with the details of the exact event on your ticket.

Sources and attribution

Its November 2 announcement; Washington’s current security and bag policy; Washington’s $26 “We Win, You Win” package.

Cover image is illustrative basketball photography, not documentation of the players, venue or event discussed.