NCAA tournaments to be played with limited attendees, no fans amid coronavirus concerns

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The NCAA announced Wednesday it is limiting crowds for all championship events, including the men's and women's Division I basketball tournaments, due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Here's the NCAA's statement, via president Mark Emmert:

“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.”

Since only essential staff is permitted at NCAA tournament events, that will prevent Danny Ainge and the Boston Celtics from scouting talent at the Division I men's tourney. As of now, though, the tournament is expected to be played as scheduled.

With the NCAA taking drastic measures to limit the coronavirus outbreak, we can expect other leagues to follow suit.

Certain sports teams, such as the Seattle Mariners and Golden State Warriors, already have made significant changes amid coronavirus concerns. The Mariners will open their season away from Seattle, and the Warriors became the first NBA team to ban fans during the pandemic.

The Ivy League had already cancelled its conference tournament prior to NCAA's announcement.

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