Mar 20, 2019; General overall view of the March Madness logo on signage and chairs before the first round of the 2019 NCAA Tournament at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

NCAA to allow limited number of fans at March Madness

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 2/19/21

The NCAA announced Friday that it will allow a limited number of fans to attend the 2021 men's NCAA Tournament, better known as March Madness.

"This year's tournament will be like no other, and while we know it won't be the same for anyone, we are looking forward to providing a memorable experience for the student-athletes, coaches and fans at a once-in-a-lifetime tournament," Dan Gavitt, NCAA senior vice president of basketball said in a statement. "After the cancellation of the 2020 tournament, we are happy to welcome some fans back to all rounds of the Division I Men's Basketball Tournament."

ATTENDANCE UPDATE!

NCAA to allow limited fan attendance at DI MBB NCAA Tournament! #MarchMadness
https://t.co/YFlndZLyxY pic.twitter.com/M3QzsYXvcn
— NCAA March Madness (@marchmadness) February 19, 2021

The tournament will take place in Indiana at several different locations, including Ball State University, Butler University, the Horizon League, Indiana University, IUPUI and Purdue University.

Fans will be allowed up to 25% capacity under state and local health restrictions due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The capacity includes players, coaches, essential staff, players' families and a reduced number of fans. All fans must wear face coverings and practice social distancing.

The 2020 tournament was canceled due to COVID-19 and the 2021 tournament's relocation came after the NCAA pushed back the start of the season.

Gonzaga sits atop The Associated Press' top 25 poll with a 21-0 record while Baylor is second at 17-0.

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