Basketball fans are descending upon Springfield for this weekend's Hall of Fame's enshrinement ceremony.
This year's class includes ten-time All-Star Carmelo Anthony, four-time WNBA Champion Sue Bird, and Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan, who won back-to-back national championships coaching at Florida.
City officials are warning that East Columbus Avenue will be closed near Symphony Hall and I-91 during the event Saturday evening.
But the Enshrinement is not the only thing in the city this weekend.
Mayor Domenic J. Sarno stated, “First of all, I want to thank my dedicated city team and our key local downtown venue stakeholders for their continued efforts in preparing for a great weekend for our Springfield. The excitement of the annual Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony with legendary NBA and WNBA greats making their way to our Springfield, the birthplace of basketball, as well as the strong support for the annual law enforcement Ride to Remember spearheaded by retired Police Sgt. John Delaney, and other things going on too like the annual Mattoon Street Arts Festival, Glendi Greek Festival, Sheriff’s Shuffle and more. With proper planning and management, we are confident that it will be another safe and successful weekend. Thank you to all for your patience and cooperation."
It's scheduled to reopen around 9 p.m.
(Photo: John Baibak, WHYN News)