The NCAA is closing games to fans during the upcoming men’s and women’s Division I basketball playoffs over concerns about the coronavirus.
March Madness is one of the organization’s most profitable sporting events.
In a statement, President Mark Emmert said the decision comes after careful thought on what would be best for the public, including fans, coaches and 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,” Emmert said.
READ MORE: What Do You Need To Know About Coronavirus? We’ve Got Answers.
Essential staff and limited family will still be able to attend.
The move comes after the Ivy League canceled its tournaments and other conferences implemented similar moves to ban fans from games.
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This is a rapidly evolving story, and we are working hard to bring you the most up-to-date information. However, we recommend checking the websites of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the Indiana State Department of Health for the most recent numbers of COVID-19 cases.
