GRAND FORKS (AP) - The NCAA will not say how much it has spent on the lawsuit over the University of North Dakota's Fighting Sioux nickname.

"We do not divulge either the exact amount or a range of our legal billings pertaining to any specific case," NCAA spokesman Bob Williams said. "In defending our position, we expend whatever resources are appropriate; however, we do not take into account the other side's budget."

Attorneys representing UND have billed about $353,000 to two separate litigation funds set up to channel private donations to support the school's lawsuit. About 90 percent of the cost has been billed by three attorneys with Fabian and Clenendin, a Salt Lake City-based law firm working on the case as special assistants.

Donations so far have covered only about half the Fabian-Clenendin bill, but UND President Charles Kupchella has said some donors have pledged to cover any shortfall.

UND is challenging an NCAA ban on use of its Fighting Sioux nickname in postseason play. The NCAA says the nickname is hostile and abusive, while UND says it is used with honor and respect. The case is scheduled for trial in December.