The NCAA announced a ban Wednesday, March 11 on fans attending the men’s and women’s basketball tournaments.

“Only essential staff and limited family attendance,” said Mark Emmert NCAA president. “While I understand how disappointing this is for all fans, my decision is based on the current understanding of how COVID-19 is progressing in the United States.”

The NCAA recently formed an advisory panel of public health, epidemiology, and medical field professionals. The decision to limit fans at the March Madness championship was made in conjunction with the advisory panel and an advertisement from the CDC.

Conference tournaments are business as usual, for now. Major conferences may begin changing their policy in coming days as many postseason tournaments are already underway or getting ready to begin.