Ice Cube Secures $10 Million Deal as BIG3 League Sells First Franchise Team
Ice Cube’s BIG3 League has entered into a groundbreaking $10 million deal as it embarks on a significant transition, establishing geographical ties to its teams for the first time since its inception in 2017.
The 3-on-3 basketball league, known for its innovative format and star-studded lineups, will now anchor teams to specific cities, starting in 2025. Among these teams is the newly minted Los Angeles franchise, owned by DCB Sports, as announced in a recent press release.
Ice Cube expressed his enthusiasm for this milestone, stating, “This is a historic day for the BIG3. We could not be happier to entrust part of our league to Gary and this seasoned group of sports investors ahead of our most important season yet.”
The move to base teams in home cities aims to deepen engagement with local communities and fans while fostering growth opportunities for the league. Ice Cube emphasized the potential for exponential growth with the involvement of ownership groups bringing diverse sports expertise and business acumen.
The deal follows an unsuccessful attempt to recruit Caitlin Clark, the all-time NCAA leading scorer, to the BIG3. Ice Cube and fellow co-founder Jeff Kwatinetz alleged that her agents, purportedly aligned with the NBA, hindered negotiations. Despite offering Clark $5 million to join the league, she ultimately opted to sign with the Indiana Fever in the WNBA draft.
In response to the failed recruitment, Kwatinetz penned an open letter accusing Clark’s representatives of prioritizing NBA interests over her own potential earnings in the BIG3. Clark, however, maintained her focus on basketball and distanced herself from the controversy, reaffirming her commitment to her current team and goals on the court.
As the BIG3 League evolves with its newfound regional focus and strategic partnerships, eyes remain on Ice Cube and his vision for the future of professional basketball entertainment.
