Summer tourney at UD possible
The Basketball Tournament is planning to host its $2 million winner-takes-all event in one location.
The Basketball Tournament announced Wednesday it will play all its games over 10 days this summer at one location, but it did not announce that location or the exact dates when the games will be played.
UD Arena was scheduled to host the final three rounds of the $2 million winner-takes-all event, which in years past has started with games at eight regional sites. According to a TBT spokesman, there have been talks with UD about it hosting the entire tournament, but talks are continuing with several different locations.
Dayton Athletic Director Neil Sullivan said “under the right conditions, the right dates,” UD would still be interested in hosting the tournament.
“There’s a lot of different scenarios being talked about,” Sullivan said. “We’re a good partner with them, and we’re working through different options and different challenges. Nothing’s been decided.”
The tournament revised its schedule because of the coronavirus pandemic. Anyone who purchased tickets will have their money refunded. CEO Jon Mugar told USA Today he doesn’t anticipate fans will be allowed to attend the games.
“After reviewing all available science and data, working with experts, and receiving support from our partners, we’ve devised a plan we are confident protects the health and safety of our participants and staff to the greatest extent possible,” Mugar said in a press release. “At the forefront is our single-elimination format, ability to test and quarantine the field and keep teams separate at all times. We look forward to hosting an incredible group of teams and crowning a champion this summer.”
The 24-team field will be announced in June. One of the teams is expected to be a Dayton alumni team, the Red Scare, which was put together by former Dayton walk-ons Jeremiah Bonsu and Joey Gruden. Former Flyers Trey Landers, Ryan Mikesell, Devin Oliver, Dyshawn Pierre, Darrell Davis, Kendall Pollard and Kyle Davis have committed to play, along with former Louisville guard Ryan McMahon.
All players will have to follow the TBT’s health and safety plan, which includes the following rules:
1. “All participants will be tested for COVID-19 upon arriving at the location. A positive test result will lead to the removal of both the individual and their team from the event.”
“Teams will be kept separate at all times in quarantine and screened regularly for symptoms of COVID-19.:
3. “All participants will be tested again after the quarantine period. A positive result on this second test will lead to the removal of both the individual and their team from the event.”
4. “Teams that have tested negative will be cleared to participate in TBT. Once cleared for participation TBT will continue to screen individuals for symptoms daily.”
5. “All players will undergo an exit screening by local health officials.”