1) All smiles from Blueox’s second annual knock-out competition. The second annual knock-out competition saw a division of 14 + teens and adults as well as two groups of kids competing on Friday night. (Photo by Morgan Golliver), 2) Jeff Abbott assists Steve Benenati on the infamous ‘Do or die shot’ before the start of the 28th annual Norwich Gus Macker tournament. Steve and Jeff were both inducted into the 50th annual Gus Macker Hall of Fame last August. (Photo by Morgan Golliver), 3) Springbrook and Achieve played a game of unified basketball for the Norwich Gus Macker’s annual high noon game at Dream Court. (Photo by Morgan Golliver), Court Red A featured 15 teams of boys ages 6-10 years old with the lower baskets. (Photo by Morgan Golliver)

NORWICH – The 28th Annual Norwich Gus Macker Tournament brought downtown Norwich to life over the weekend, as 316 teams hit the courts for a spirited and action-packed celebration of basketball and community.

Despite a few weather delays and scattered rain, the tournament rolled on with energy and excitement. From referees and scorekeepers to volunteers and staff—who put in countless hours and showed true heart for their community—the behind-the-scenes team was key to keeping the weekend running smoothly.

“Thank you to all our volunteers. From everybody from the bracket tent that kept 28 different tournament games going to medical, to the police, to set up, to tear down, to the concessions, to the people that picked up the garbage, to the girls wrestling program that ran water to all of our volunteers, to all of our officials, to all the folks that did registration,” Jamey Mullen, YMCA Executive Director said in a live video after the tournament. “ 316 teams, 1250 players, 900 of them kids all came together in the spirit of basketball in downtown Norwich.”

Highlights from this year’s tournament included BlueOx’s second annual Knock-Out Competition, the heartfelt “Do or Die Shot” led by Steve Benenati and Jeff Abbott, and the inclusive high noon game between Springbrook and Achieve on the Dream Court. When thunderstorms rolled in late Sunday, the final games were moved to the Norwich YMCA, ensuring players could finish strong. The streets were back open at 6:35 p.m. due to all the hard work from the Norwich community.

Since its debut in 1996, but years lost due to COVID, the tournament has remained a staple of summer in Norwich—blending competition, camaraderie, and community pride.

Stay tuned for official court results and a full photo gallery later this week. Great job to all the players, fans, and volunteers who made this year’s Macker another one to remember!