Whitmer: Variant COVID-19 strain behind delay in winter sports No timelines set for season, MHSAA says FacebookTwitterEmail During a press conference Monday, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said concerns over a new variant strain of the COVID-19 virus played a role in the decision to postpone prep contact sports —including boys and girls basketball — until Feb. 21. (Tribune File Photo)Tribune File Photo EAST LANSING — After an announcement made Friday by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, activities in high school winter contact sports — which include boys' basketball, girls' basketball, hockey, wrestling, and competitive cheer — will remain non-contact through at least Feb. 21.