The NCAA canceled its men's and women's basketball tournaments on Thursday because of the spread of coronavirus, putting an abrupt end to the season less than a month before champions were to be crowned.

The organization cited the evolving COVID-19 health threat for its decision and not wanting to contribute to spreading what has been labeled a pandemic by the World Health Organization.

In a statement, NCAA President Mark Emmert said the decision comes after careful thought on what would be best for the public, including fans, coaches and student-athletes.