Ice Cube has revealed ambitious plans to expand the BIG3 overseas, starting with exhibition games in Australia later this year.
Speaking with NBA insider Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson, the BIG3 co-founder confirmed that the league will partner with the National Basketball League (NBL) for its first international showcase. He described the NBL as “probably the second-best league in the world” and expressed hopes of establishing a permanent BIG3 presence in Australia.
“We’re being hosted by the NBL, which is a great pro league in Australia,” Ice Cube said. “Hopefully, we can start a BIG3 league in Australia one day—BIG3: Asia—and continue to add all these leagues all over the world.”
The expansion vision does not stop with Australia. Ice Cube outlined a long-term goal of creating regional BIG3 leagues across different continents, culminating in a global championship tournament.
BIG3, known for its three-on-three format featuring former NBA stars and elite professionals, has grown steadily since its launch in 2017. The league has attracted major sponsorships and fan engagement while positioning itself as a summer basketball alternative.
Despite its success, Ice Cube has frequently clashed with NBA executives over what he claims is a lack of cooperation. However, he noted that international leagues, like the NBL, have been more receptive to working with BIG3.
“The cooperation with the NBL is different than, of course, what’s happening here, and it makes all the difference in the world,” he said.
The upcoming season, branded as “Season 8: Summer in the City,” will feature stops in various U.S. cities before the league takes its talents to Australia. The tour will serve as a test run for potential future BIG3 expansion teams in international markets.
Since its inception, the BIG3 has drawn basketball legends such as Allen Iverson, Joe Johnson, and Stephen Jackson. With the league now looking beyond the U.S., new opportunities could emerge for international players and former NBA talents seeking alternative playing options.
Ice Cube has long been vocal about making BIG3 a global brand, previously discussing interest from investors in Europe, Asia, and South America. The partnership with the NBL could serve as a blueprint for future collaborations.
As the league gears up for another season, the expansion efforts highlight Ice Cube’s long-term vision for making three-on-three basketball a worldwide attraction.
“We got the long game, as they say,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to global expansion.
