AAA Issues Spectator and Administrative Guidelines for 2026 High School Basketball State Finals
The Arkansas Activities Association has issued guidelines for school administrators, students and spectators ahead of the 2026 Arkansas high school basketball state championship games at Bank OZK Arena.
The guidance, distributed to participating schools, outlines expectations for behavior and crowd management as teams prepare to compete for state titles.
According to the AAA, school administrators will play a key role in maintaining order during the championship games. Principals, athletic directors and other administrative staff are expected to position themselves in front of their student sections and near the fan seating areas behind team benches before, during and after games.
Administrators are also expected to remain alert for unsportsmanlike behavior and be prepared to address issues immediately, including removing individuals who violate conduct standards. Schools have also been instructed to ensure students remain seated in the bleachers and do not stand on concrete walkways or stairways inside the arena.
The AAA emphasized that administrators should communicate behavioral expectations to students and spectators both before and during the event and maintain active supervision of student sections, fans and support groups.
The organization also outlined expectations for spectators and students attending the championship games.
Fans are required to remain in the bleachers, with standing on concrete walkways behind team benches or near media areas prohibited. Standing in stairways is also not allowed.
Spectators are encouraged to support their teams through positive encouragement while avoiding rude or derogatory remarks toward opponents. The AAA also reminded fans to demonstrate respect toward game officials and to avoid wearing clothing with derogatory or suggestive messages.
Additionally, negative or obscene chants and yelling are prohibited.
The AAA said spectators must remain off the playing floor at all times, noting that only individuals with media credentials will be allowed on the court for photographs after games.
Nick Lasker, associate executive director of the Arkansas Activities Association, said the guidelines are intended to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all participants and attendees during the championship event.
The AAA thanked schools and fans in advance for their cooperation in helping maintain a positive atmosphere throughout the state finals.