SEATTLE — The University of Washington women's basketball team partnered with the UW Autism Center to host the first sensory-friendly game in Alaska Airlines Arena on Nov. 23, providing accommodations designed to make the sporting experience more accessible for autistic fans and their families.

"Families share often how difficult attending sports games can be from the sheer amount of sounds, and lights, and crowds to fear of judgment," said Yev Veverka of the UW Autism Center. "We've heard from so many of our families that they avoid things like this."

The arena offered sensory bags at entrances containing earplugs, sunglasses, communication boards and other items to help manage sensory overload. Fans were encouraged to bring personal headphones and sunglasses in approved clear bags. The

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