Reader’s note: The story was updated to include the new scheduling rules and personnel required to wear masks.
Shortly after the news of the fall sport calendar being released, the UIL also released new changes coming for the upcoming basketball season.
Teams will be allowed two scrimmages with no more than four teams to meet at one site for a scrimmage. For sites that host more than four, it will not be allowed.
The playoffs will also be different, being bumped ahead to where the bi-district round will start on the Friday before where playoffs traditionally start. For regional rounds, they will continue on as regular rounds in the playoffs, where the traditional Friday/Saturday consecutive layout at a neutral site will be eliminated.
Tournaments will not be allowed for UIL teams for participation and hosting. Texas is also home for national showcases including the Thanksgiving Hoopfest, the Whataburger Tournament and other big name tournaments. Teams that usually make their way out-of-state will also not be allowed to.
As of now, TAPPS remains as the only organization that can host and participate in tournaments.
In scheduling, teams are allowed three games a week, two of which must be played outside of the school week.
To mitigate the spread of COVID-19, face coverings must be worn by all team personnel that include coaches, managers and players that are actively not on the court. Players that are in the game do not have to wear masks.
New playoff dates
Feb. 11-13: Bi-district
Feb. 15-16: Area
Feb. 18-20: Quarterfinals
Feb. 22-23: Regional semifinals
Feb. 26-27: Regional finals
March 4-6: State tournament
