LEXINGTON, Ky. — March in Kentucky means basketball madness.  And the pandemic is changing things but not making tournaments impossible.

The Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA) announced the 2021 dates for the Boys' and Girls' Sweet Sixteen State Basketball Tournaments.  The boys' tournament will be March 31 through April 3, followed by the girls' tournament from April 7 through April 10. 

Each tournament will take place over four days at Rupp Arena with the semifinals and championship being played on the last day. 

Attendance at both tournaments will be limited to 15% of capacity in the areas of the arena being used for the games.  KHSAA will announce ticketing details next month, but all-session tickets will be limited this year to allow for proper social distancing and to allow fans from competing teams a chance to attend. 

In a statement on its website the KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett said, “We know that there are many who would like to see things resume full-speed ahead immediately, but that is neither responsible nor practical right now. This is the same situation our University partners and friends have found themselves in this season, so it isn’t all that unexpected.” Tackett added, “Ever since the 2020 events were shut down and ultimately canceled, we have all hoped for the 2021 tournaments to be a renewal and rebirth. Unfortunately, that timeline isn’t feasible right now. We will work with our partners at Rupp Arena, the City of Lexington, and various health entities to maximize the opportunities for this year’s event and ensure an optimal experience for the participating teams and members of their community.”