MSHSAA to host state basketball this weekend with precautions

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

High school basketball will continue in Missouri despite concerns surrounding COVID-19.

MSHSAA spokesman Jason West said the Class 4 and 5 state basketball championships will be played this weekend in Springfield, Mo.

West said each team will be able to give out 100 wristbands to families and fans.

"We plan to continue screening the players as they enter the arena," West said in a text message. "We will also expand that to include anyone with floor access. This would include our staff, cheerleaders and the media."

West added there will be expanded seating areas, and MSHSAA is asking fans to give themselves a comfortable amount of space in between each other.

West said there will be multiple hand sanitizer stations throughout JQH Arena this weekend.

The Rock Bridge girls basketball team will play Hazelwood Central in the Class 5 state semifinals on Friday at 6:05 p.m.

The Helias boys basketball team will play Vashon in the Class 4 state semifinals on Thursday at 6:15 p.m.