The NCAA Tournament Will Be Held Without Fans In Attendance Due To The Coronavirus

by Staff Reporter

March 11, 20201 Comments

Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports

NCAA President Mark Emmert announced Wednesday afternoon that the Men's and Women's Basketball Tournament will be held without fans in attendance due to the Coronavirus.

quote:
NCAA President Mark Emmert's statement on limiting attendance at NCAA events
March 11, 2020 4:29pm

The NCAA continues to assess the impact of COVID-19 in consultation with public health officials and our COVID-19 advisory panel. Based on their advice and my discussions with the NCAA Board of Governors, I have made the decision to conduct our upcoming championship events, including the Division I men’s and women’s basketball tournaments, with only essential staff and limited family attendance. While I understand how disappointing this is for all fans of our sports, my decision is based on the current understanding of how COVID-19 is progressing in the United States. This decision is in the best interest of public health, including that of coaches, administrators, fans and, most importantly, our student-athletes. We recognize the opportunity to compete in an NCAA national championship is an experience of a lifetime for the students and their families. Today, we will move forward and conduct championships consistent with the current information and will continue to monitor and make adjustments as needed.