The 2020 NCAA Basketball Tournament will be the most memorable of all time. That's because the NCAA has decided to play every tournament game in arenas that are essentially empty. The move is in response to COVID-19, more commonly known as coronavirus.
NCAA President Mark Emmert released the following statement Wednesday afternoon.
"The NCAA continues to assess the impact of COVID-19 in consultation with public health officials and ourCOVID-19 advisory panel.Based on their adviceand 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."