IHSA takes steps to keep state tournament going amid public health crisis

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The IHSA is planning to go forward with the boys basketball state tournament.

During a Thursday afternoon press conference, the IHSA said it made the right decision in continuing the tournament. Restrictions were implemented earlier on Thursday morning. Fans are limited to only 60 per school, per game as the COVID-19 outbreak continues to cancel sporting events across the country.

"This is extremely tough. It's the crown jewel of the IHSA. To make this adjustment is extreme," Craig Anderson of the IHSA said. "It's hard to make this kind of decision but it is about health and safety."

The IHSA worked with Peoria health officials to determine the status of the Class 1A and 2A boys basketball state finals this weekend. The Class 3A and 4A sectional finals will also go on as planned this Friday night. Class 3A and 4A will then play in Peoria next weekend with supersectionals still scheduled for Tuesday.

A previously delayed Class 3A sectional game between Hinsdale South and Benet is also scheduled for Thursday night after being postponed,

"The Peoria Health department has advised us that we are still solid with the limited attendees. Any of that could change if they get information that advises us differently," Anderson said.

With the IHSA's decision to limit fans for state tournament games, the state is also taking steps to solidify streaming options so fans can watch games at home. The IHSA announced that it is waiving rights fees for schools that wish to set up streaming parties. 

The Jordan Brand Classic was canceled Thursday night. Nike's annual showcase of the nation's best high school seniors was scheduled for Wintrust Arena on Friday, March 27. Whitney Young's D.J. Steward and Morgan Park's Adam Miller were both selected as participants before the game's cancellation.

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