The men’s and women’s NCAA Tournaments will be played without fans, the NCAA announced Wednesday, in response to growing concerns over the coronavirus. Only essential staff, coaches and limited family members will be able to attend this year’s tournaments.

NCAA President Mark Emmert statement on limiting attendance at NCAA events: https://t.co/GrPbmZx5N6 pic.twitter.com/PFFh9htixR

— Inside the NCAA (@InsidetheNCAA) March 11, 2020

“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,” said NCAA President Mark Emmert in a press release. “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.”

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