NIU students will encounter something new when they go watch the Huskies battle the Illinois State Redbirds in the first round match of the NCAA Championship Tournament at 4 p.m. today.

It’s no longer free to enter.

Due to NCAA rules, the host team in any NCAA tournament event has to charge money for people to get in. Yes, real cash.

The NCAA ticket price for students, children and senior citizens will be $3. Everyone else will be charged $5.

Tickets are available through the NIU Athletic Ticket Office (106 Evans Fieldhouse), or can be ordered by calling 753-0353 or 1-800-332-HOWL.

“We need all our fans to come out and help us,” head coach Pete Waite commented. “Even if they have to get to the game late because it’s a tough time for them, the size of the crowd could make a big difference.”

Once the match is over, the fans can stick around for the NIU-University of Southern California women’s basketball game scheduled later in the evening (that game is free for all students).