NORWICH – The festivities kicked off Friday night as residents and visitors alike flooded the city streets in preparation for the 15th Annual Gus Macker 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament.

Teams began registering at 4 p.m., the preliminary round of the Women’s 3-point Shot Competition was held, Brooks’ Barbeque Chicken served up some tasty grub and the Norwich City Band provided the entertainment as city residents prepare for a weekend of pure basketball frenzy.

“I think this is just a great event for the entire city that brings people from all over,” said Mayor Joe Maiurano. “It’s just a great community event and it shows what a fantastic community we have here.”

An excited Jamey Mullen, executive director at the Norwich Family YMCA, said things were running smoothly and he expected an enormous turnout for the annual event, which typically draws between 8,000 and 10,000 people every year.

“So far, so good,” commented Mullen during Friday’s action, who added, “We’ve never had a bad weekend for Gus Macker. Every year is a little different and special. It’s fun, it’s exciting.”