The 75th annual Orillia Blackball Classic is officially underway at all three local high schools.
A ceremonial tip-off, featuring long-time officials, helped kick off the action Friday morning. Chester Graham, Mike McParland, Paul Hopper and Jerry Goodeill were all recognized for their contributions to Blackball over the years.
There are 12 teams participating in this year's junior division, whie 16 teams will be battling for the coveted Blackball trophy in the senior boys' division.
The championship game in the juinor division tips off at 6 p.m. Saturday at Orillia Secondary School.
Following that game, and before the senior boys' title game, the Blackball committee will be recognizing people who have made outstanding contributions to Canada's longest, continuously-running basketball tournament.
Action, at all three local gyms, is free.
You can follow along on Twitter: @BlackBallbball
