IHSA Cancels Basketball Tourney, Other Events Due To Coronavirus

PEORIA, IL — The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) has canceled its remaining winter state series postseason boys’ basketball tournaments and other winter series events over concerns related to the new coronavirus pandemic. The announcement came Thursday evening.

“We appreciate the patience and understanding that we have received from everyone involved in this process over the past 72 hours,” IHSA Assistant Executive Director Craig Anderson said. “We have stressed the fluidity of this situation and have been transparent about the possibility that a suspension or cancelation could occur.

The IHSA had originally planned to continue the boys' basketball tournaments at Carver Arena, Peoria Civic Center with limited spectators in accordance with Centers for Disease and Prevention and Illinois Department of Public Health guidelines or suspending the events. The IHSA board “after deliberate discussion, did not believe that was a realistic option.”

The Scholastic Bowl, drama and group Interpretation, music, debate and journalism winter state series events have also been canceled.

“We feel for everyone who has been impacted, but must put the health and safety of all involved ahead of these events,” the IHSA said in a written statement.

The IHSA has not made any decisions related to spring sport tournaments at this time.

“It is too early to make any decisions regarding IHSA spring state final tournaments,” said Anderson. “We respect the NCAA’s decision to cancel its spring championships, but also recognize that the exposure and travel by our high school teams is not as expansive as collegiate teams. At this juncture, we recommend that all IHSA spring sport teams consult their local health departments, and follow their recommendations on if and how to proceed with practices and regular-season contests.”