Games without fans

With the guidance from its political leaders and health and education agencies, the New Mexico Activities Association will continue to play its basketball championships.

The players just won’t have fans in the stands.

According to a NMAA release sent out March 12, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and the Departments of Health and Education recommended that only team members, officials and essential facility and tournament workers be allowed at both Dreamstyle Arena and the Santa Ana Star Center.

Even members of the media will not be allowed entrance to either facility.

The state is encouraging all to watch the semifinal and finals on the NFHS Network at nfhsnetwork.com.

As of March 14, seven teams were crowned champions, including all five divisions of the girls. Those champions were Hobbs (5A), Los Lunas (4A), Navajo Prep (3A), Mescalero Apache (2A) and Melrose (A). The two boys champions were Bosque Chap (3A) and Pecos (2A).

“The NMAA staff will also provide frequent updates via its various social media platforms throughout each contest,” the release states. “Fans who purchased advanced tickets through the University of New Mexico for games held March 12-14 should contact the Lobo ticket office on for a full refund.

“Spectators who purchased All-Tournament Passes directly from the NMAA office should contact the New Mexico Activities Association on to discuss refund options.”

By Mitch Stephens
MaxPreps.com