Thousands come out to watch Gus Macker

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Nearly 1,000 teams are showing off their hoops skills this weekend in downtown Buffalo.

The Gus Macker tipped off once again in downtown Buffalo. Thousands of people were out early to play and to watch the three-on-three basketball tournament that, once again, is bringing in record numbers.

Orval Cott of the Police Athletic League said, "We're proud to announce we're the largest in the country for the second consecutive year now with 966 teams."

Men and women, boys and girls of all ages.

"Age groups from ten and under to 45 plus," stated Cott.

Shiela Green is out here cheering for her 10-year-old daughter, Paris.

Green commented, "It's her first time, although her dad has a history of playing in the Gus Macker. I think daddy's proud that his daughter is following in his footsteps."

The Gould's are here watching their son play with his old high school friends.

Karen Gould said, "Once they hit high school, they stopped, so they got back together and they're doing it again."

The goal of the Gus Macker is to be the last team standing. All these players here are hoping to be here Sunday afternoon.

Maurice Holmes said, "I don't wanna go home, not today."

Maurice and his friends have been playing in this tournament since they were in grade school. They all once played at Buffalo Traditional as well.

Marqui Truman said, "It's just a fun atmosphere, ya know, people can have fun, you bring the family out the kids."

"There's a lot of skill, there's a lot of people who think they have a lot of skill, there's a lot of people who had skill, but it's a fun event," added Cott.

The games continue on Sunday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.