(Des Moines) Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Drake University men’s and women’s basketball seasons will begin without the general public in attendance at the Knapp Center, Drake Athletics announced Thursday, Nov. 19. A limited number of student-athlete and coaching staff family members will be permitted to attend, but must wear masks and socially distance, among other requirements.
In cooperation with local and state health officials, the University will continue to monitor and evaluate the potential of in-person attendance at the Knapp Center as the season progresses.
“While we are disappointed our great fans will not be able to join us in the Knapp Center to start the season, this is the right decision to make at this time,” said Drake director of athletics Brian Hardin. “We have had and continue to have robust conversations with our campus leadership and local authorities about the appropriate time and safety protocols that will allow our fans to support the Bulldogs in person.”