Basketball had hoped to continue with competitions around the capital, although proceeding with caution by banning huddles, handshakes and sanitising balls after games.

But officials decided on a blanket cancellation after the federal government's advice to avoid public gatherings of 500 people or more.

The situation will be reassessed on Monday.

"In light of the recent advice against non-essential gatherings of persons over 500, provided by the Australian Government and health authorities today, Basketball ACT (BACT) has decided to cancel all BACT related events, competitions and programs, to protect public health and the spread of COVID-19," chief executive David Simpson said.

"This includes the cancellation of ALL junior competitions games, ALL senior games on Monday 16 March, BACT rep program training and all Aussie Hoops activities.

"BACT has the health and well-being of all its basketball family in mind when making this decision, and we appreciate your patience and understanding during this period.

MORE SPORT

"As the situation is a rapidly evolving one, we will be re-examining all advice provided by the Australian Government, ACT Government and health authorities, to protect our, players, coaches, members, supporters and staff."

Basketball joins tennis and club rugby in cancelling events in Canberra.

The ACT Brumbies and Canberra Raiders were cleared to proceed with their Canberra games this weekend.

But future matches will be played in empty stadiums, after both Super Rugby and the NRL issued directives on Friday night.