People from all over Western Massachusetts were able to showcase their skills on the hardwood Sunday in the 2024 Western Massachusetts Special Olympics basketball tournament.

American International College hosted the event in partnership with Special Olympics Massachusetts.

Around five teams and 60 participants were able to go through different dribbling drills and compete games with help from AIC volunteers and student athletes.

It was a fun time for many involved.

"I like playing basketball," said Adam Shipp. "And I'm pretty good at it."

"The drills and stuff," said Josh Schavrien. "Running up and down the court."

Basketball promotes teamwork, as well as the health and wellness of players. Special Olympics Massachusetts' goal is to make the sport accessible for everyone.

Hadley resident Michelle Palmisano says it means a lot have a local league where her son Anthony can compete.

"The Special Olympics is an amazing organization anyways," said Michelle Palmisano. "But it's great for him and his social ability to be able to talk to and be with other people that are like him."

"The passing and dribbling and shooting," said Anthony Palmisano.

The tournament runs for one more weekend at AIC's Henry A. Butova Gymnasium on Sunday, Feb. 17.