Big East, A-10 to Continue Conference Tournaments Without Fans
GoLocalProv Sports Team
Big East, A-10 to Continue Conference Tournaments Without Fans
On Wednesday night, the Big East and A-10 Conferences announced that they are limiting admission to teams, network television, working media, essential personnel, and team-affiliated family members and guests.
"Although this was a difficult decision it’s imperative that the Atlantic 10 act in the best interest of our student-athletes, teams and member institutions. This a very unique and serious situation given the global impact of COVID-19, and as disappointing as this is for our fans and spectators, this decision had to be made,” said A-10 Commissioner Bernadette McGlade in a statement.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTFor the Big East, the announcement comes after it was announced earlier in the day on Tuesday that the Tournament would “continue as planned.”
"We have made this decision due to the rapid progression of COVID-19 and escalating developments nationally, as well as through guidance we have received from medical experts, local authorities and other sources," said Big East Commissioner Val Ackerman.
The Friars play their first game of the Big East Tournament on Thursday, March 12 at 2:30 p.m. against Butler at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
The Rams play their first A-10 Tournament game on Friday night at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. It is unclear who their opponent will be.
NCAA Tournament Will Have No Fans
As GoLocalProv reported, earlier in the day on Tuesday, the NCAA announced that its tournament will be played without fans.
“This 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,” said NCAA President Mark Emmert in a statement.
The tournament is scheduled to start on Tuesday, March 17 with the "First Four" in Dayton, Ohio.
The first full day of games will take place on Thursday, March 19.