The Latest on the effects of the coronavirus outbreak on sports around the world:
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Kansas withdrew from the Big 12 Tournament on Friday after a positive COVID-19 test within the men’s basketball program, sending No. 13 Texas into the championship game against No. 2 Baylor or No. 12 Oklahoma State.
The Jayhawks learned earlier this week they would be without center David McCormack and backup forward Tristan Enaruna due to COVID-19 protocols. They managed to beat No. 25 Oklahoma 69-62 in the quarterfinals without them.
Kansas had gone the entire season without an outbreak that caused it to cancel or postpone a game.
It’s unclear whether the positive test came from a player or staff member.
Kansas would need to return seven consecutive days of negative tests that produce at least five eligible players to participate in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.
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Duke and Virginia pulled out of the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament because of a positive coronavirus test and the resulting quarantining and contact tracing.
The ACC announced that the Blue Devils’ quarterfinal game with Florida State scheduled for Thursday night has been canceled. Duke had won its first two tournament games, but is just 13-11 overall and 9-9 in ACC games.
The Blue Devils’ streak of 24 consecutive NCAA Tournaments is in jeopardy.
Virginia’s game set for Friday against Georgia Tech also was called off as the Cavaliers pulled out of the tournament.
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The Baltimore Orioles announced Friday they will begin the season by hosting approximately 11,000 fans per game, or 25% of capacity of Camden Yards.
In accordance with MLB’s health policies, the Orioles will implement “pod” seating throughout the ballpark to guarantee proper social distancing of six feet between each group of ticket holders. Fans will have to wear masks at all times unless eating or drinking in their assigned seats.
Camden Yards also will not accept any cash payments this season. Credit or debit cards will be the only method of payment throughout the ballpark, including at parking lots, concession stands, and ticket windows. Kids Run the Bases also is canceled for the time being.
The home opener is April 8 against the Boston Red Sox and will be reserved for fans who purchased Birdland Memberships.
The Orioles also plan to promote vaccination education and crucial public health messaging to fans all season and will invite local frontline and health care workers to select games in honor of their dedication to the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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The Big South Conference has postponed FCS football games between Robert Morris and Charleston Southern and Monmouth and Gardner-Webb scheduled for Saturday because of the coronavirus.
