On Thursday morning, interns from NYCM, the YMCA staff, City Church Pastor Zach Thorp, and other volunteers, assembled the Norwich Gus Macker baskets in the Firehouse parking lot to get them ready for the weekend. (Photo by Morgan Golliver)

NORWICH – The Norwich Gus Macker 3-on-3 basketball tournament returns downtown July 12–13 for its 28th year, bringing together over 1,250 players on 315 teams. After a pandemic pause and two years at Norwich High School, the tournament returned downtown in 2024 and continues to regain momentum with strong youth participation, steady growth, and a renewed emphasis on community.

While turnout among male players remains high, organizers continue to navigate challenges in adult women’s participation, which reflects national trends. Still, the tournament stays true to its mission that “Macker is for everyone,” highlighted by Saturday’s High Noon game on the Dream Court. This year's game pairs Springbrook and Achieve clients in a unified format, celebrating inclusion, ability, and connection.

“Preferred Mutual is excited to build off the success of last year’s high noon game,” said YMCA Executive Director, Jamey Mullen. “This year, Springbrook and Achieve will be recognized and honored, with their clients taking the court in a meaningful, inclusive event that celebrates everything the tournament stands for.”

Adding to the “flavor of the community,” a full slate of food and merchandise vendors will line the streets and East Main Park. Favorites like Tropical Snow, A&J Smokin BBQ, Dickey’s BBQ, Knights of Columbus, San Ho, and even the Norwich Girls Basketball Boosters serve up local eats and fundraising efforts. Vendor organizer Mindy Chawgo calls it “a full weekend of community and fun.”

The Norwich Gus Macker tournament also continues to be the only Gus Macker in the country to present a Sportsmanship Award, thanks to long-time sponsor Burrell’s Excavating and KMC Sand & Gravel. YMCA Sports Director Tom Revoir says it’s a tradition that sets Norwich apart and reflects the values at the heart of the event.

“I want it known that we continue to be the only tournament in the country that still gives out a Sportsmanship Award,” Revoir said. “No one else does it anymore, and we’re so thankful for Burrell’s.”

The weekend officially kicks off with Friday’s BlueOx second annual Knock-out Competition at 6 p.m. and continues with opening ceremonies Saturday morning, featuring the “Do or Die Shot,” this year taken by newly inducted Gus Macker Hall of Famers Steve Benenati and Jeff Abbott before games get underway at 8:30 a.m.

With support from sponsors like Springbrook, NBT Bank, Preferred Mutual, Live Event NY, and the City of Norwich—and the helping hands of volunteers, vendors, and fans—the Norwich Gus Macker is more than a tournament. It’s a celebration of basketball, inclusion, sportsmanship, and small-town pride that keeps getting better with time.

Good luck to all the players! Be sure to grab a copy of the Gusette and check out the new and expanded Threads by Gus tent for all your Macker apparel.