Coronavirus: Gophers Game, Big Ten Tournament Canceled

INDIANAPOLIS — The Big Ten Conference basketball tournament has been canceled in an effort to avoid the spread of coronavirus, or COVID-19. Following their victory over Northwestern Wednesday, the Minnesota Gophers were scheduled to play Iowa Thursday.

"The Big Ten Conference announced today that it will be canceling the remainder of the Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament, effective immediately," the conference said in a statement.

"The Big Ten Conference will use this time to work with the appropriate medical experts and institutional leadership to determine next steps for moving forward in regard to the COVID-19 pandemic. The main priority of the Big Ten Conference continues to be the health, safety and wellness of our student-athletes, coaches, administrators, fans and media as we continue to monitor all developing and relevant information on the COVID-19 virus."

The Big 12, SEC, American, and other conferences also canceled their conference tournaments Thursday.

Don't miss the latest coronavirus updates from health and government officials in Minnesota. Sign up for Patch news alerts and newsletters for what you need to know daily.

The Minnesota Department of Health recommends that the most important thing Minnesotans can do right now to protect themselves, their families and their communities is to take everyday steps to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses.

Those include:

• Staying home if you have cold or flu-like symptoms and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
• Covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or into your sleeve , and then throwing the tissue in the trash.
• Washing your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds , especially after going to the bathroom or before eating. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol.
• Avoid touching your face – especially your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

Read more:

• Coronavirus: Another Case In Twin Cities Confirmed
• University Of Minnesota Suspends In-Person Classes
• Gov. Tim Walz Authorizes Funds For Coronavirus Response
• Target Sets Purchase Limits Amid New Coronavirus Outbreak