[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/TomMays1.jpg” caption=”McMaster alumnus Tom Mays performed the national anthem at the annual M.E.S.S.! basketball event on Saturday, Jan. 26. Photo courtesy of Lorraine Redford. “]More than 500 McMaster employees and their families cheered on the men's and women's basketball teams at the annual M.E.S.S.! basketball event on Saturday, Jan. 26.

The event started just prior to the tip-off to the Marauder women's game, and lasted until the end of the men's game. Participants were provided with a wristband upon entry, which gave them access to the games, private refreshment area, complimentary face-painting and draw prizes.

The two games proved to be very exciting, with the women's team claiming a 73-59 victory and the men's team doing the same with a final score of 75-57. Full coverage of both the women's and men's games is available on the Athletics and Recreation website.

McMaster alumnus Tom Mays performed the national anthem and was excited that his debut solo performance of the anthem was at a McMaster event. The ceremonial tip-offs were thrown by long-time employees Terri Jones, School of the Arts, and Fred Hall, associate vice-president (academic) for the women's and men's games, respectively.

“This event is always very popular with McMaster employees and their families,” said Pat Harris, current chair of M.E.S.S.! “It is a great way to spend a cold winter's afternoon with family and friends, and there is a feeling of camaraderie among all of the McMaster fans.”

Don't miss the M.E.S.S.! theatre event on Sunday, Feb. at the Westside Theatre in Hamilton. This year, M.E.S.S.! will partner again with the McMaster Musical Theatre for their production of Cabaret. Online registration will be available on Friday, Feb. 1 by visiting the theatre website. Please register early for tickets to avoid disappointment.