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| - NCAA officials closed the US national college basketball tournament to paying fans on Wednesday in an unprecedented move due to the coronavirus outbreak. National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) president Mark Emmert said the move, made after consulations with public health officials, would allow only relatives and essential personnel at games. "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 attendance," Emmert said. "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. "This decision is in the best interest of public health, including that of coaches, administrators, fans and, most importantly, our student-athletes." Wrestling, ice hockey and other sports will also be hit by the fan ban, but the biggest loss for American sports fans will be the silence and squeaking shoes in empty arenas that replace the loud cheers, school band music and electric atmosphere typically associated with "March Madness" decides a national champion among the top future NBA prospects. Allowances were made so family members could still enjoy what is often a once-in-a-lifetime thrill of a national title chase in the nation's most popular indoor sport. "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. "Today, we will move forward and conduct championships consistent with the current information and will continue to monitor and make adjustments as needed." js/rcw
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