Sensing a widening gap between fans and their franchise, the Sonics are doing something about it, introducing changes designed to increase what they're calling the "experience" at KeyArena.

"That's who you play for -- the fans," said coach Nate McMillan. "To reach out to them and allow them to get to know you, that's the way it should be."

Among the changes aimed at fans at tonight's home opener against San Antonio and the 40 games to follow:


Sitting courtside during pregame warmups.


Kids under 16 can shoot postgame foul shots.


Personal giveaways from players (i.e. shoes) and autographs following select games.


Taking part in player pregame activities as members of the "Starting Five" and "Team Captains."