CORNING, N.Y. (WENY) - The Gus Macker basketball tournament is a popular three-on-three basketball competition held across various cities in the United States. Created in 1974 in Lowell, Michigan, the street style tournament emphasizes sportsmanship, community spirit and the love of the game. 

This summer, Gus Macker is taking place in Corning in the Corning Credit Union parking lot. It has players as young as seven years old and goes all the way up to 40+. All skill levels are welcome.

"We travel across the country doing this and obviously you can see by the boards here it's our 50th anniversary so it's kind of a big deal", said Event Manager, Noah Williams. "We've done New York State for quite a few years. We just get out here, we play in the sun, rain, wind. Luckily for us, the weather is great this weekend."

Each team consists of four players with three on the court and one substitute. The games are played in double elimination style on half courts with standard street basketball rules. If you lose your first two games, don't worry, you are sent to the "Toilet Bowl" bracket, a consolation bracket where losing teams compete for the toilet trophy. 

Local and regional athletes came to the Gus Macker tournament to participate in the nation-wide event. 

Elmira Notre Dame basketball coach, Trentton Ray said, "First time I ever played in Gus Macker I think I was 14 years old. It was at the Hornell Gus Macker. I am now 29 years old and this is the first time they've ever had it in Corning so I had to play, otherwise-- I probably would've retired from the Gus Mackers. Basketball is the love of my life", said Ray. "I love getting out here and playing the game, don't matter how old I am. The kids are out here, they wanna see me hang out, have fun. It's good to help them win some games. And I think it's just good for everyone to get out of the house. Do something fun without having any problems. There's no drama, it's a lot of good people, a lot of smiles."

In 2025, Gus Macker will visit Elmira, with the two cities rotating as host city in following years. In a joint release by both agencies, the Gaffer District and Elmira Downtown Development say the hosting partnership fosters a sense of community, and highlights the unique qualities of each city.