UH basketball games to be played without fans

The University of Hawaii contingent reacted to Tuesday’s announcement from the Big West Conference that its men’s and women’s basketball tournaments will be played without fans in attendance due to concerns over the Coronoa virus.

The Hawaii men are set to play UC Davis in the Big West Tournament quarterfinals in Anaheim, Calif., on Thursday.

“Obviously, it’s disappointing that we won’t be able to play in front of our tremendous fans, our band, cheerleaders and dancers who always travel so well in support of us,” UH head coach Eran Ganot said in a statement emailed to media on Tuesday. “Right now, we are only concerned with what we can control. Despite the unique situation, our focus will continue to be on preparing for the tournament and putting forward the best performance we can.”

The UH women (15-14) open play in their Big West Tournament in Anaheim today.

“All season long our players have played for the person to their left and to their right,” Wahine coach Laura Beeman said. “With the announcement from the BWC regarding canceling fan participation for the tournament this mantra will resonate louder than ever. The health and welfare of everyone is always our first concern. Whether there are fans in the seats or not, we will not be alone. Aloha cannot be stopped.”

Hawaii athletic director Dave Matlin said he understands the decision was a tough one for the BWC. Hundreds of Hawaii fans have already arrived in California for the tournaments and now will not be able to attend. “I’m sure it was a difficult decision for the Big West Conference, as it was for both the Ivy League and MAC, which have also taken measures with COVID19,” Matlin said. “I particularly feel for our dedicated fans who have sacrificed their time and resources to make their way to Anaheim to support our men’s and women’s basketball programs. Regardless, this will not hinder our teams from representing the state of Hawaii with a championship mindset.”