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Gus Macker 3-on-3 Charity Basketball Tournament

The Chamber Alliance of Mason County announced in 2023 that it would not be renewing it's contract with Gus Macker. The owner of the franchise has stated that he hopes to secure a corporate sponsor so that the tournament can continue in Ludington. Stay tuned for updated information.

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History of the Ludington Gus Macker

The tournament was born back in 1974 in Lowell, Michigan. Scott McNeal (alias Gus Macker) got together with 18 friends and $18 to play a friendly 3-on-3 basketball game in his parent’s driveway. The tournament continued to grow, and due to the tremendous interest from outside communities, it took to the road and moved its home base from Lowell to Belding in 1987. Today, Macker is played in outdoor and indoor courts in over 75 cities throughout the country, drawing over 200,000 players and 1.7 million spectators. But even with this growth, it continues to feel like a “hometown” game. The Gus Macker tournament is always a wholesome activity for all ages and talent levels.

2020 would have marked the 29th anniversary of Gus Macker in Ludington but, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the tournament had to be canceled. The tournament has also been cancelled for 2021 due to restrictions still in place.

Because of its longevity and beautiful location, the Ludington Gus Macker Committee and the Ludington & Scottville Chamber of Commerce were inducted into the Gus Macker Hall of Fame in 2018.

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Gus Macker Community Donations

In the 28 years of Macker in Ludington, over $300,000 has been returned to the area’s schools to purchase uniforms and equipment. These teams donate their time in setting up hoops, fences, and cleaning up. In order to make the tournament run smoothly, nearly 400 other volunteers are needed, from checking-in participants to being a Gus Buster.

What's going on now in Ludington?

Discover more to do in Ludington!

Races

Ludington is a popular location for various races and runs… including the Lakestride Half Marathon and the Lighthouse Triathlon.

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More Activities & Attractions in Ludington

Ludington North Breakwater Light

Ludington’s North Breakwater Light is the number one lighthouse to see in Michigan! Take a trip along the breakwater path to see it up close!

Mason County District Libraries

In addition to thousands of book titles, the Mason County District Library’s Ludington and Scottville branches provide many free programs.

Fishing on Hamlin Lake

Fishing on Hamlin Lake

If there’s one thing that Hamlin Lake is known for, it’s excellent fishing. Catch crappie, bluegill, and more across thousands of acres.

Night Life

The fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down here in Ludington! Nightlife here includes festivals, cozy restaurants, and local performances.

Trails and Tours

Discover all of the different trails and tours that Ludington has to offer! Discover a water path, hiking trail, or an art work stop!

Bookstores & Coffee Shops

Just blocks from the beach is the heart of downtown Ludington, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy summertime events.

Weather & Water Conditions

West Michigan weather – they say if you don’t like the weather in Ludington, wait a few minutes and it will change.