Ice Cube’s Big3 league is making significant strides with new teams in Houston and Miami.
Inside Big3’s Success
Launched in 2017, the 3-on-3 league offers fans a unique opportunity to buy stakes in the organization. Keeping the door open for new investors, the former NWA member’s league saw its first team sold for $10 million, a person familiar with the deal told Bloomberg.
Transitioning from a touring format to a city-based model, Big3 sold its inaugural franchise in Los Angeles to a group led by DCB Sports. Now aiming to sell all 12 teams, Big3 recently has secured deals in Houston, Miami, and Detroit.
“We need to establish roots in cities so we can be more than just a traveling all-star game,” Ice Cube told Bloomberg. “It’s about developing the sport and the league.”
Eric Mullins, a former Goldman Sachs executive now leading Lime Rock Resources, is investing in the Houston team alongside Milton Carroll, a minority owner of the Houston Astros.
In Miami, real estate executive Heath Freeman is taking the lead on the investment. Both team deals are reportedly valued at $10 million.
“Big3 is revolutionizing basketball; the gameplay is dynamic and nuanced, attracting audiences in this rapidly growing region,” Freeman said in a statement.
The Detroit deal also was announced this week.
On July 8, Ice Cube announced a new franchise expansion in Detroit for the 2025 season. The team will be operated by GameAbove Sports and led by GameAbove founder Keith J. Stone. NBA Hall of Famer George Gervin, former Detroit Lions offensive lineman T.J. Lang, and Born In Detroit apparel co-founder Anthony Tomey are involved in the ownership group as well, according to the Detroit Free Press. Former NBA player Earl Boykins will be involved with the team.
These significant sales follow Ice Cube’s purported $5 million invitation for WNBA rookie star Caitlin Clark to join Big3 before she was drafted in the women’s league, where her annual salary is $76,000. Ice Cube reportedly offered Clark $15,000 to participate in their half-court competition. Co-founder Jeff Kwatinetz later suggested that Clark’s agents did not inform her of the offer.
Clark has since become a key figure in the WNBA, driving record-breaking attendance and viewership.
Despite this, Big3 is plowing ahead with expansion plans. “We believe that establishing teams in key cities will help build a dedicated fan base. Miami is a fantastic city,” Ice Cube remarked to the Miami Herald. “It’s a destination for many people. If you’re winning, Miami fans will support you wholeheartedly.”
With a net worth estimated at $160 million, Ice Cube continues to expand his impact in the entertainment and sports sectors through ventures like Big3.
