The crowd watches one of the few remaining games on Court ‘G’ on Sunday afternoon. The morning rain shortened the length of games by 25 minutes to a 15 minute time limit. (Photo by Morgan Golliver)

NORWICH – The 26th annual Gus Macker 3 on 3 basketball tournament kicked off over the weekend at the Norwich High School. Saturday brought scorching temperatures while games were shortened Sunday due to rain in the morning. Overall, the tournament was a blast for the youth, their families, and all volunteers who helped out.

On Saturday, 256 teams played on 23 assigned courts, including the dream court, top men’s and women’s courts. Before game began, Scott “Gus” McNeal and his staff held opening ceremonies. During opening ceremonies, Gus introduced his staff, which some members are located at headquarters in Michigan while others reside in New York State. Then, Gus introduced the Norwich YMCA Staff, Jamey Mullen and Tom Revoir, who have played a big role in making the Norwich tournament successful. Jamey was presented with a Gus Macker flag while Tom received a Macker wreath.

Concluding the opening ceremonies was the special appearance from Anielle McEwan-Lomnicki, who is an inspiration to all as she fought and survived a devastating injury. She was chosen to do the famous “Do or Die Shot” and as an experienced basketball player, she made it on the first try. She and everyone around her were so excited. AK played on Court M on the WCDO/AK team.

Games started at 9 a.m. and concluded around 4:30 or by 5 p.m. Rhett Genung, aka Rockstar DJ, kept everyone hyped up with non-stop music from the Live Event NY sound stage. 15 vendors filled the roadway and 23 games were being played at the same time.

Sunday’s weather forecast brought on morning rain, which only affected game times and the length of games. All games started at 8 a.m. depending on game number instead of official game time. Games were able to be played due to no thunder or lightning, only hard rain. Games were also shortened to 15 minutes and teams had to score 10 points straight out or it went by whoever was leading when time ran out. This changed from the usual 25 minutes and 15 points.

The top men’s and women’s court was moved to the Norwich High School gymnasium after their special mats weren’t suitable to play on after the rain. Dream court was not used on Sunday either, so other courts were used. These changes were positive because the tournament could still be played and courts were done two hours in advance with the shorter game times.

After courts were finished with games, the Gus Macker committee took down as many baskets as they could while proud athletes posed with their trophies using a Norwich Gus Macker backdrop in front of the high school gymnasium entrance.

While the weather did not cooperate, smiles were still shown on many players and their families’ faces and fun memories were made.

Look for a full recap on the 2023 Gus Macker tournament in the Evening Sun later this week, along with a full photo page.