“The NCAA continues to assess the impact of COVID-19 in consultation with public health officials and our COVID-19 advisory panel,” Emmert said. “Based on their advice and my discussions with the NCAA Board of Governors, 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.

“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.

“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.”

The post NCAA President Mark Emmert issues statement on limiting attendance at NCAA events appeared first on Alabama Sports.

Auburn beat Kentucky, 77-71, in the Elite Eight matchup in the Sprint Center in Kansas City and earned a trip to the Final Four for the first time in program history.

The Tigers got 26 points from Jared Harper on key shots late in the game to lead the way. He was also a clutch 11-for-11 from the free throw line.

The post Auburn earns first Final Four trip with overtime win appeared first on Alabama Sports.

EAST

(3) LSU 69, (6) Maryland 67
(2) Michigan State 70, (10) Minnesota 50

WEST

(1) Gonzaga 83, (9) Baylor 61
(4) Florida State 90, (12) Murray State 62
(2) Michigan 64, (10) Florida 49

SOUTHEAST

(3) Purdue 87, (6) Villanova 61

MIDWEST

(5) Auburn 89, (4) Kansas 75
(2) Kentucky 62, (7) Wofford 56

The post Scores for 2019 NCAA second round games appeared first on Alabama Sports.