The NCAA has canceled the men’s and women’s March Madness basketball tournaments, as well as the remaining winter and spring championships, due to the ongoing outbreak of the novel coronavirus known as COVID-19.

“This decision is based on the evolving COVID-19 public health threat, our ability to ensure the events do not contribute to spread of the pandemic, and the impracticality of hosting such events at any time during this academic year given ongoing decisions by other entities,” the NCAA said in a statement on Thursday.

This decision by the NCAA comes shortly after several major college conferences — including the ACC — announced they would be suspending competition indefinitely due to the fear of spreading the virus.

It also brings an abrupt end to the college basketball season that was set to begin its men’s and women’s tournaments next week. NCAA president Mark Emmert said previously that the tournaments would be held without fans, but now those games — including the 2020 national championship game — have been canceled.

UNC athletic director Bubba Cunningham released a statement regarding the ACC’s cancellation of games, saying he sympathized with the student-athletes who will not have a chance to compete for a title.

“We particularly empathize with our seniors and teams who have worked so hard and are competing for national championships,” said Cunningham. “The health and safety of our students, coaches, staff, fans and visitors is our priority. We appreciate everyone’s understanding during this challenging time.”

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