When UCLA alumnus Tracy Murray called out Eric Kveton’s name at halftime during Sunday’s women’s basketball game, a huge section of the band sprung up out of their seats in elation.
Kveton, a trumpet player, had just won a $21,000 scholarship as part of a “Free Tickets, Full Ride” promotion by UCLA women’s basketball.
But Kveton wasn’t in the stands with his friends.
“I was in line ordering a popcorn and a Coke,” Kveton said.
“The guys come over and say, “˜Hey you’re Eric right?’ I had heard them chanting “˜Eric,’ and I thought it was just someone on the court. They were like, “˜Oh, you just won tuition.’ I had no idea what was going on. I get out there and everyone starts cheering.
“I’ve never won anything like that in my life. It’s just a little bit crazy,” Kveton added.
Kveton, a second-year mathematics and applied science major, said the scholarship money would be “really big” for him and his family.
He said he has a twin brother who is also in college and a car that needs fixing.
Kveton also said he will be looking for an apartment next year.
“There are a lot of things I was worrying about that I guess won’t be as much of a problem anymore,” Kveton said.
“I don’t think it’s hit me yet. I’m surprised I haven’t passed out yet.”
The promotion, sponsored by a women’s basketball booster, was designed to help get more students to attend women’s basketball games.
At each of the first 10 games of the season, students had the chance to earn 10 points for attending. Attendance at Sunday’s game against USC doubled students’ cumulative point totals. Points were converted into entries in a random drawing, so students who attended multiple games had better chances to win the scholarship.
Kveton said the entire band signed up, knowing they had good odds since they go to most games.
“I love women’s basketball,” he said. “I’ve always been a fan of it. I would be coming out even if it wasn’t for the promotion. I’m a big fan of the team, and it’s just really fun going to the games and heckling the other team.”
After winning the scholarship, Kveton appeared somewhat dazed by the entire experience.
Bombarded by a group of reporters, he often paused, at a loss for words.
“Oh, man,” he muttered as the crowd around him began to dissipate.
“This is ridiculous.”