The Big3 basketball league, co-founded by Ice Cube, has formally declared its expansion to Detroit. This decision follows the acquisition of the future team by sports investment firm GameAbove Sports, which has also obtained the Big3 franchises in Los Angeles, Miami, and Houston.
As stated in a press release, the Detroit-based team will represent the state of Michigan in the 2025 season, with NBA Hall of Famer and Big3 coach George Gervin expressing his enthusiasm for the new development. “The entire team at GameAbove and I are excited to bring a Big3 franchise to the Motor City,” stated Gervin. He further lauded the league’s growing prominence and international appeal, asserting that Detroit’s rich sports history makes it an exceptional market for the Big3.
GameAbove Sports indicated that their decision to establish the franchise in Detroit “perfectly aligns with the brand’s current presence in the region.” This move is consistent with the company’s principles and aims, and it is viewed as a strategic expansion of their sports portfolio.
Since its inception in 2017, Big3 has expanded to 12 teams and is presently in the fifth week of its seventh season, holding events across the nation. Ice Cube, the league’s co-founder, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the sale of the Detroit team to GameAbove Sports, characterizing the investors as “an amazing group of entrepreneurs and philanthropists.” He also highlighted the potential for the Young3 initiative in Detroit, which seeks to involve young fans and players in the sport.
The sale of the Detroit team signifies a new era for Big3 as the league extends its presence into a new market and continues to advance and popularise 3-on-3 basketball. George Gervin’s involvement with the Detroit team is also expected to have a significant impact on the local community, given his high regard and standing in the region. This announcement represents a significant milestone for both Big3 and GameAbove Sports, as they anticipate collaborating to bring the vision of Big3 Detroit to life next season. The move into Detroit is viewed as a positive step for the league, as it continues to broaden its audience and appeal to basketball enthusiasts nationwide. With the backing of the Detroit community, the Big3 franchise is poised for success in the upcoming season.