Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Unveils Inaugural Ice Cube Impact Award
Rap legend Ice Cube is set to receive the prestigious Ice Cube Impact Award from the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
The collaboration aims to recognize Cube’s extraordinary contributions to the basketball world, his unparalleled passion for the game, and his unwavering commitment to promoting inclusivity, equal opportunity, and social justice.
The award ceremony is scheduled for Martin Luther King Jr. Day on January 15, 2024, in Springfield, Massachusetts.
The Naismith Hall of Fame plans to permanently showcase the Ice Cube Impact Award in its museum, honouring subsequent award winners each year through a dedicated exhibit. This exhibit will delve into the in-depth stories of honorees who leverage basketball as a platform for positive initiatives in their communities.
In a statement, John L. Doleva, President and CEO of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, praised Ice Cube’s passion for the game and his dedication to using basketball as a catalyst for positive impact. Doleva expressed delight in collaborating with Ice Cube, stating that the award would stand as a testament to basketball’s profound impact on communities worldwide.
Meanwhile, Cube’s recent allegations against the NBA, claiming efforts to “destroy” his BIG3 basketball league, have prompted a U.S. Government investigation. The Department of Justice launched an inquiry months ago, examining claims of the NBA attempting to stifle Cube’s 3-on-3 league, potentially violating antitrust laws.
Ice Cube has long raised concerns about the NBA allegedly impeding the progress of BIG3, including discouraging potential sponsors and television networks from partnering with the league. BIG3 officials believe the NBA has unfairly targeted them and pressured owners to avoid investing in their league. Cube also asserts that the NBA implemented rules preventing current players from participating in BIG3 games, despite their ability to play in other off-season competitions.
Cube and BIG3 co-owner Jeff Kwatinetz reportedly met with the Department of Justice earlier this year. If the NBA is found in violation of antitrust laws, it could face substantial fines. NBA spokesperson Mike Bass has denied all allegations, stating that they have been supportive of BIG3 since its inception but declined to invest.
Cube clarified on Twitter that BIG3 never asked the NBA to invest, emphasizing their desire for the NBA to stop pressuring individuals and corporations not to invest in BIG3. Ice Cube, speaking on Joe Rogan’s podcast in June, highlighted the alleged challenges faced by BIG3 and the need to fight back against the NBA’s perceived campaign to impede its progress.
