The NCAA announces that the NCAA tournament has been canceled. NCAA President Mark Emmert has issued a statement.
Today, NCAA President Mark Emmert and the Board of Governors canceled the Division I men’s and women’s 2020 basketball tournaments, as well as all remaining winter and spring NCAA championships. This decision is based on the evolving COVID-19 public health threat, our ability to ensure the events do not contribute to spread of the pandemic, and the impracticality of hosting such events at any time during this academic year given ongoing decisions by other entities.
Before the ruling came down, both Duke and Kansas suspended all athletic events indefinitely Thursday, because of the coronavirus pandemic.
"During this unpredictable time, Duke Athletics fully supports all measures to protect the health and welfare of the Duke family and beyond," Duke athletic director Kevin Whitesaid Thursday. "While we understand this may be daunting to many, please know that this decision is entirely in the best interest of all student-athletes, coaches, staff and fans."
Kansas athletic director Jeff Long also as well:
"Our highest priority at Kansas is to ensure the safety and well-being of our student-athletes, coaches and staff. Based on the recommendations of our medical professionals, we have canceled all athletic travel indefinitely. In addition, all home and away athletics events have been suspended indefinitely. We will continue to monitor the situation and determine the next appropriate steps based on advice from our medical team."
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