I agree with most of what you suggested. I do think it might be a good idea to use bleachers for the student section(s). The way I see it, maybe this will force more of them to remain standing for the game? allow for a more "packed" section and even save us some money only having to fill 3/4 of the arena with chair-backs. A larger two-tiered arena is key. Even if the capacity is below 10,000 having multiple tiers allows for louder crowds and more big-time feel.
Just ran into New Seattle arena renderings. Obviously way too expensive, but thought the layout was very cool. Having the suites/club seats to close to the court is genius. Reminds me a bit of Pitt's arena. So many arenas being built today look exactly alike. It's refreshing to see some innovation.