FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 12, 2020
** Revised March 12, 3:55 p.m.
*** Revised March 13, 7:55 p.m.
**** Revised March 19, 2:00 p.m.

News Conference Video

SPRINGFIELD -- Based on the latest developments in the coronavirus (COVID-19) threat, Missouri State University will follow the directive of the Missouri Valley Conference and cancel all ***remaining intercollegiate athletic competitions through the end of the 2019-20 school year.

**The NCAA has also announced the cancelation of its 2020 winter and spring championships, including the NCAA Men's and Women's Basketball Championships.
 
**** Missouri State teams will continue to conduct closed practices, per NCAA seasonal rules.

Also on Thursday, (March 12), the MVC canceled its 2020 Women's Basketball Tournament in Moline, Ill., was canceled. All tickets for the MVC Women's Basketball Tournament will be refunded at the original point of purchase.
 
"The conference feels this is the prudent course of action," said Director of Athletics Kyle Moats. "We will adhere to their guidance in this matter. All of our teams that are on the road for weekend competitions have been asked to return home."
 
Missouri State University issued a public health advisory on March 12 related to the coronavirus. Preventative actions identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are encouraged for all university students and employees.
 
Missouri State University President Clif Smart noted the Missouri Valley Conference President's Council, which made the decision Thursday afternoon to suspend league competition, was unanimous in its action.
 
"The university presidents would rather err on the side of safety for our student-athletes," said Smart. "It was unanimous among all the conference presidents that safety was the priority. I really hate this for the Lady Bears who were playing for a postseason title this weekend after such an amazing regular season."
 
Additional updates related to athletic practices and competition will be provided as they become available.