SPOKANE, Wash. — Cancellations resulting from COVID-19 will have an enormous impact on the U.S economy and Spokane's economy.
The first weekend of March Madness would have been hosted at the Spokane Arena March 19-21. The event would bring with it an influx of business to nearby restaurants and shops.
Following NCAA's announcement to cancel of the tournament, Clinkerdagger has already received some reservation cancellations for that weekend.
Owner of David's Pizza, Mark Starr, said he was really looking forward to the event and so were his customers. While the cancellation is meant to be a safety precaution, Starr said he is disappointed, but mostly for the players.
"We've been looking forward to this for a long time. Especially as well as Gonzaga has done over the years and this year especially," Starr said. "So it's disappointing for sure. But that can't even compare to what those guys have to go through. One day they're told they're not going to be playing to an audience. Next day they're told they aren't playing at all. I just can't even imagine.m Within 24 hours, we had phones ringing off the hook. We had hundred of people trying to get reservations to come and watch the game here--so it was looking like it was going to be a lot of fun. Then today at 2 p.m. it's like, well, I guess not so much."
Davenport Hotels expected to host six basketball teams, and two would hosted at Double Tree hotels, according to Davenport marketing and communication director Matt Jensen. That's an estimated 400 rooms.
Jensen was not able to comment on reservation cancellations or other impacts of COVID-19.
The Fox Theater also tweeted Thursday it decided to postpone or cancel all performances and events through April 10. Information regarding ticket refunds will be published in the coming days.