Legendary L.A. rapper, actor, and filmmaker Ice Cube’s Big3 has reportedly become recognized as the first Black-owned sports league.
According to Big3’s official site, it’s the first professional sports league to be certified as a Black-Owned and Operated business by ByBlack and the U.S Black Chambers Inc. The certification reportedly establishes the league as part of the ByBlack network and makes BIG3 the first and only professional sports league to be certified.
“Myself and the entire league are honored to be officially certified by ByBlack and the U.S. Black Chambers,” said the L.A. native. “From day one, the league has been dedicated to providing opportunities for Black players, fans, investors, and partners, and we are proud to be a part of a nationwide network of Black business owners. Supporting Black enterprise is a lifelong passion of mine, and the BIG3 will continue to build upon its successes and lift other Black entrepreneurs.”
Ice Cube and entertainment executive Jeff Kwatinetz founded the 3-on-3 competition league in 2017. It reportedly concluded its fifth season in August.
“USBC is energized by the BIG3 basketball league becoming a certified ByBlack business. This is the first step of what we deem to be a fruitful partnership, with Ice Cube’s commitment to helping other Black-owned businesses get ByBlack certified,” Ron Busby Sr., USBC CEO & President, said. “We applaud Ice Cube for leading the way in this initiative, and it is our goal to continue this partnership by collaborating with Ice Cube, BIG3, and other Black-owned businesses in the sports and entertainment industry.”
Big3 recently began selling ownership-like franchise blockchain technology-powered franchise stakes, which several celebrities and business people have purchased. Snoop Dogg, Gary Vaynerchuk, Ken Howery, and DeGods, are among the most notable figures who’ve bought teams.
In addition to founding the Black-owned league, Ice Cube co-established the Contract With Black America Institute and struck a landmark partnership with the NFL. The partnership will enable him to have Big3 invest and partner with Black-owned businesses with over $125 million.
