For the first 20-plus years of its existence, Hinkle was the largest basketball arena in the country. Its been called the cathedral of Hoosier hoops hysteria.

State officials reiterated Wednesday they believe the state will be able to safely host the NCAA Men's Division I basketball championship games next month even with fans.

Hotels and restaurants were already preparing to host 68 teams consisting of athletes, coaches, staff and family members. The latest decision allowing up to 25 percent capacity at each venue will increase the number of people coming to Indiana.

Last month, NCAA officials announced all 67 games would be held in Indiana to limit team travel and keep athletes, coaches and staff safe during the pandemic.

The men's tournament will be played March 10-14 at Lucas Oil Stadium, just a few blocks away from Bankers Life Fieldhouse where the women's tourney will take place the same week.

The city will host the NCAA men's basketball tournament and officials have been working to make sure everything is ready for the teams and national spotlight.

The coronavirus pandemic forced the NCAA to move the entire 67-game tournament to Indiana, which means the schedule doesn't have to be built with travel concerns in mind.

Indianapolis city officials expect around 20,000 visitors downtown during the NCAA March Madness Tournament.

No official analysis has been done on the economic impact of Indiana hosting this years March Madness games, but officials say they anticipate it to be in the hundreds of millions of dollars.

Most games will be held in Indianapolis, some early games will be played in Bloomington and West Lafayette.