The Big East and Atlantic 10 conferences are following the NCAA tournament's lead by restricting attendance to their league tournaments due to coronavirus concerns.
Both conferences announced Wednesday night they are limiting admission starting Thursday to teams, network television, working media, essential personnel and team-affiliated family members and guests.
The Big East, which includes St. John's and Seton Hall, plays its tournament at Madison Square Garden, while the A-10, which includes Fordham, plays across the East River at Brooklyn's Barclays Center. Both events began Wednesday in front of regular crowds. The Big East's tournament runs through Saturday, while the Atlantic 10 tournament concludes Sunday.
"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," Big East Commissioner Val Ackerman said in a news release. "The support of our fans has made the BIG EAST Tournament one of the most exciting events in college basketball, but the health and well-being of our game participants is of paramount importance. We are very grateful to Madison Square Garden for their understanding and cooperation as we jointly manage a very difficult situation."
Said A-10 Commissioner Bernadette McGlade: "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."Earlier Wednesday, the NCAA announced its men's and women's basketball tournaments will be off-limits to fans. Other conferences, including the Big Ten, Big 12, ACC and SEC, are taking similar precautions. The Ivy League canceled its tournament Tuesday.
