Since the tipoff of the 2023-2024 season, women’s college basketball sensation Caitlin Clark has been more than just a blip on the radar. Her historic play has catapulted her into the spotlight, positioning her as the future No. 1 pick in this year’s WNBA draft. But that’s not all. The West Coast rap legend, Ice Cube, has thrown down the gauntlet, making an unprecedented offer to Clark: a whopping $5 million to suit up and play for his association, the BIG3 league.
Clark, who has dazzled fans during her tenure at Iowa State, is no stranger to breaking records. Known for her superior shooting and playmaking abilities, she has maintained an outstanding average of 31.8 points per game, along with 7.3 rebounds and 8.8 assists. These jaw-dropping stats make her not only a top contender for the WNBA Draft but also a potential superstar in the BIG3 league.
Ice Cube, the visionary behind the BIG3, didn’t mince words.
“We intended the offer to remain private while Caitlin Clark plays for the championship, he tweeted. But I won’t deny what’s now already out there: BIG3 made a historic offer to Caitlin Clark. Why wouldn’t we? Caitlin is a generational athlete who can achieve tremendous success in the BIG3.”
Cube’s move isn’t just about dollars and cents. It’s about rewriting the script for female athletes. With the pay scale in the WNBA considerably lower than that of the NBA, he emphasized the significance of paying America’s female athletes a competitive salary. No more overseas stints just to make ends meet.
“America’s women athletes should not be forced to spend their off-seasons playing in often dismal and dubious foreign countries, Cube asserted.”
This isn’t the first time Cube has shattered barriers. Remember when he appointed Nancy Lieberman as the first female coach of a men’s pro team? She went on to win the championship in her first year. And Lisa Leslie? She clinched it all in year two. Now, with the offer to Caitlin Clark, Cube aims to create history once again, breaking down even more barriers for women athletes.
The BIG3 (stylized as BIG3) is a 3-on-3 basketball league founded by hip-hop musician and actorIce Cube along with entertainment executive Jeff Kwatinetz. This dynamic league features12 teams, each comprising a mix of former NBA players and international talents.
The games are played in a half-court format, emphasizing skill, strategy, and fast-paced action.With a roster that includes All-Stars, Hall of Famers, and World Champions, the BIG3 has become a thrilling platform for basketball enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the BIG3 promises electrifying matchups that redefine the game.
Let’s take a look at a few notable names who’ve left their mark:
Joe Johnson: Known as “Iso Joe,” Johnson is the undisputed GOAT of the BIG3. His scoring prowess, court vision, and versatility have made him a force to be reckoned with. He led the league in scoring, won the MVP award, and clinched a championship with the Triplets in their inaugural season. Johnson’s impact extends beyond the court, as he continues to redefine the game in FIREBALL format.
Rashard Lewis: The 3-Headed Monsters owe much of their success to Lewis. In the league’s first-ever season, he dominated, leading in scoring and earning the MVP title. Although his production has tapered off, Lewis remains a crucial part of the team, showcasing the versatility that defines BIG3 basketball.
Allen Iverson: The iconic NBA star made waves as a player-coach in the BIG3. His presence electrified fans, and his legacy continues to resonate. Iverson’s crossover skills and unmatched flair left an indelible mark on the league.
Charles Oakley: A New York Knicks legend, Oakley brought his toughness and leadership to the BIG3. As the coach of the Killer 3’s, he’s been instrumental in shaping the team’s identity.
Jason Williams: The flashy point guard known for his dazzling passes and ball-handling skills graced the BIG3 courts. Williams added excitement and flair to the game, leaving fans in awe.
Gary Payton: Another former NBA star, Payton, served as both a player and a coach in the league. His defensive prowess and basketball IQ made him a valuable asset2.
Other notable names include Lamar Odom, Kenyon Martin, Baron Davis, Amar’e Stoudemire, and Rashad McCants. These players have contributed to the BIG3’s legacy, proving that the league is more than just a nostalgic trip—it’s a platform for basketball greatness23.
As the news reverberates across sports circles, fans are buzzing. Will Caitlin Clark accept the historic offer? Can she light up the BIG3 court and redefine the game? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: Ice Cube’s bold move has put the spotlight squarely on female athletes, and the world is watching.
