Pac-12 men’s and women’s basketball will not include nonconference games this season, the conference said Tuesday.
“We know that this is a difficult day for our student-athletes, and our hearts go out to them and their families,” Pac-12 commissioner Larry Scott said in a statement. “We have made clear that all of their scholarships will be guaranteed, and that as a conference we are strongly encouraging the NCAA to grant them an additional year of eligibility.”
On the same day the league announced college football season would be postponed until spring because of medical concerns related to the coronavirus pandemic, athletic directors also opted to push back the start of the college basketball season by eliminating non-conference travel and games.
No games will be played in 2020, according to Oregon president Michael Schill.
“All of the Pac-12 presidents and chancellors understand the importance of this decision, and the disappointment it will create for our student-athletes, the coaches, support staff and all of our fans. Ultimately, our decision was guided by science and a deep commitment to the health and welfare of student-athletes. We certainly hope that the Pac-12 will be able to return to competition in the New Year.”
