Fans that had made plans to follow their favorite teams in person through the NCAA Tournament will now have to make alternate plans. NCAA President Mark Emmert announced Wednesday afternoon that the NCAA would conduct their championships for the forseeable future without fans in the stands.
In a statement issued Wednesday afternoon, Emmert stated that the upcoming championships, including the Division I mens’ and women’s tournaments would be conducted with only essential staff and limited family members in attendance.
Emmert added that the decision was made in conjunction with public health officials and the NCAA’s COVID-19 advisory panel. He adds in the statement, that the safety of the student-athletes were the most important factor in his decision.
There are reports that the NCAA is looking at moving the Final Four out of the Mercedes Benz Stadium into a smaller Atlanta venue. There is also a possiblity that regional venues could be changed for the tournament.
After the statement from the NCAA, the SEC announced that Wednesday night games would go on as normal, but that they were considering all options for the rest of the weekend.
