NCAA Tournaments Will Go On...Without Fans

NCAA President Mark Emmert has released a statement regarding the status of the upcoming men’s and women’s basketball tournaments in the face of fears caused by COVID-19.

Emmert said the NCAA will work with public health officials to study the impact of the virus.

“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,” Emmert said in the statement.

“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.”

Emmert went on to say he was making the decision with the best interest of the health of everybody involved, “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,” the statement concluded.

“Today, we will move forward and conduct championships consistent with the current information and will continue to monitor and make adjustments as needed.