The Associated Press (AP) reports a memo from NCAA President Mark Emmert revealed its entire Indianapolis-based workforce would be furloughed, starting on September 21.

All national office staff are understood to be subjected to a mandatory three-week furlough with some facing up to two months depending on their position and timings of their duties.

The news comes after the COVID-19 pandemic forced the NCAA to cancel its men’s basketball tournament, known as March Madness – a decision that is believed to have dealt a huge financial blow to the association as the competition has previously generated nearly $1 billion (£765 million/€850 million).

"There decisions are unfortunate but necessary as we continue to identify ways to cut costs across the national office," Emmert reportedly said in the memo obtained by AP.

While some workers are reportedly being offered early retirement packages, senior executives are believed to be unaffected by the cost-saving move.

But earlier this year it was reported by USA Today that Emmert and NCAA senior management took a 20 per cent pay reduction and vice presidents took a 10 per cent cut.

It is reported by AP that the memo from Emmert was sent out to more than 1,200 NCAA member schools on Wednesday (September 2).

According to AP, Emmert added: "We are committed to supporting our member schools and conferences and student-athletes in every way possible, and yet I expect that some of our services to membership may be limited or delayed during this period furloughs.

"I ask for your patience as we all strive to weather these difficult times together."