Just over three weeks after concerns of a growing health concern postponed the Arkansas High School State Basketball Tournament, officials cancel the remaining title games.
“It is with great disappointment that we announce the decision to cancel the remaining state basketball championship games,” Lance Taylor, the Arkansas Activities Association Executive Director said. “We certainly sympathize with the students, coaches, and fans who are being impacted, but the health and safety of the students we serve is our top priority.”
The move by the AAA on Monday also adds the stipulation that any finalist, whose game was not played, will be awarded a state title.
The Valley Springs girls were set to play for the Class 3A title against Mountain View but now both teams are the 2019-20 state champions.
“It’s unfortunate we didn’t get to play the game,” Valley Springs head coach Ryan Johnson said, “but thankful to be in the position we were in.”
“The girls had a tremendous season, really grew over the course of the year. We have a lot coming back next year so hopefully we can give it another run!”
This move however comes a day too late for the Viola girls. Their Class 1A state title game came on the last day of AAA competition on March 12. They fell by seven to Kirby; Kirby is the team who beat another area team, Alpena, in the state semifinals.
AAA is planning a way to recognize the Class 3A, 4A, 5A, and 6A champions in the future.
The Board of Directors will also provide more information on the spring sports seasons at a later date.
