The Night the Lights Went Out |NCAA to Hold March Madness Without Fans

INDIANAPOLIS — March Madness without fans is inevitable

In an announcement late Wednesday afternoon the NCAA  will follow the what other sporting events and concerts have done and restrict fan access to its men’s basketball tournament, due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The news comes a hand full of days prior to selection Sunday, when the 68-team bracket is revealed. It was reported earlier today by the World Health Organization that we have reached the pandemic stage for the coronavirus and this left the NCAA with little option but to restrict fans from entry to this years Major event.

Right now all we can confirm is that the 68 teams will be draw and the teams will still take to the court but other than this the show must go on without anyone in the stands.

” NCAA president Mark Emmert said in a statement. “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 in attendanceHe continued:

“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. The 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.”