Updated: Thursday, March 12 at 4:29 p.m.:
The NCAA has now canceled both the men's and women's basketball tournaments, as well as all remaining winter and spring tournaments.
Additionally, the Big Ten Conference has now canceled all conference and non-conference competitions for all spring sports through the end of the academic year, including NCAA tournaments and competitions. This also includes all sports that compete beyond the academic year.
The conference has also put a moratorium on all on- and off-campus recruiting events "for the forseeable future."
Original Post: Thursday, March 12 at 4:14 p.m.:
After initially announcing Wednesday that the Big Ten Men's Basketball Tournament would continue with limited spectators, the Big Ten Conference announced Thursday it was canceling the tournament.
In a statement, the conference said it would be using this time to "work with the appropriate medical experts and institutional leadership" in order to determine the next steps.
"Some things are bigger than basketball. This is a global situation and we need to make sure we follow the guidance and direction of the experts and health officials," Michigan head coach Juwan Howard said in a statement. "While we are disappointed of not being able to play this event — especially for Zavier and Jon, we need to stay bonded together during this time. We want everyone to stay safe and take precautions to protect yourselves and loved ones. We are a Michigan family forever."
At this time, the conference has not said if the tournament will be rescheduled for a later date. The NCAA Men's Basketball Championship Tournament has not been canceled, though it will be played without fans in attendance.
Want to support reporting like this? Consider making a gift to Michigan Radio today.
