The 2020-2021 College Basketball Season Is Different From Other College Basketball Seasons
The 2020-2021 College Basketball season is different from other College Basketball seasons!
Why?
Because the Coronavirus that started in March of last year is still affecting us as we’re now into February of the new calendar year and because of that games are different!
How Different?
The teams and coaches have to follow protocols for what ever league they’re in but i’m specifically going to talk about the Atlantic Coast Conference!
Why?
Because that is league I pay attention too!
Men’s & Women’s Basketball tested three times each week on non-consecutive days. One molecular (PCR) test must be administered within three days of the first competition of the week. The visiting team must have results from the test performed within three days prior to the competition before the team travels to the site. A test shall also be administered within 48 hours of the conclusion of a game and may be either a molecular (PCR) or antigen test.
Men's and women's basketball officials will be required to test three times per week and will undergo symptom and temperature checks upon arrival at the venue. Any personnel seated at the scorer's table(s) must complete a symptom and temperature check upon arrival at the venue and wear a face covering at all times. Wrestling officials shall be tested once per week.
While in season, any team member who leaves the institution for more than three days (ex. NCAA-mandated holiday break), must quarantine for 24 hours upon return to campus. During quarantine, team members will be tested with a molecular (PCR) test and may return to practice if, and when, the result is negative. In addition, team members must record a second negative test (either PCR or antigen) prior to the first competition following the break.
In low transmission risk sports, all team members must be tested once per week during weeks in which there is competition. The test must be a molecular (PCR) test and completed within three calendar days of the first competition of the week. During weeks in which the sport does not compete, testing should follow the institution's plan for all students following local, state and national health guidance. Additional testing may be conducted at the institution's discretion. Any table officials in those sports are required to wear a face mask.
As previously announced, every student-athlete who tests positive will undergo a cardiac evaluation that includes an electrocardiogram, a troponin test and an echocardiogram before a phased return to exercise.
In addition to the updated ACC MAG report, the ACC has significantly adjusted its 2020-21 Men's and Women's Basketball Game Management protocols. Specifically, there must be a minimum of 15 feet separating the general public and the areas on the court occupied by essential personnel (team bench/scorer's table, etc.). Individuals deemed essential to have access within the 15-foot perimeter will be required to meet specific and consistent health and safety standards as agreed upon by all 15 schools, including a temperature screening, symptom check, physical distancing and masking.
“according to an article on goduke.com
The coaches aren’t in their suits which is their usual attire, chairs are spread out six feet with the coaches name on it along with their water bottle and anything they need for the game and a lot of arenas and stadiums aren’t allowing fans this season because of the coronavirus.
Analyst, Commentators and Sports Writers aren’t allowed in the stadiums and arenas and they have to work remotely!
One sports analyst recently was on the Duke Basketball podcast with David Shumate who is the Director Of Broadcasting and does play by play for Duke Men’s Basketball games and Duke Men’s Basketball Associate Head Coach Jon Scheyer!
Who?
Holly Rowe who works for ESPN!
Checkout their conversation on /podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-duke-basketball-podcast/id1118770038 !