Ice Cube’s BIG3 Going Public in $290 Million SPAC Deal

Ice Cube’s vision for professional 3-on-3 basketball is reaching a major milestone.

The BIG3 basketball league, founded by Ice Cube and entertainment executive Jeff Kwatinetz in 2017, plans to become a publicly traded company through a merger with special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) Graf Global Corp. The deal values the league at approximately $290 million and could close during the fourth quarter of 2026.

If regulators and shareholders approve the transaction, BIG3 could become the first traditional professional sports league in the United States to trade publicly on a stock exchange. The move would allow basketball fans and investors to own a stake in the growing league.

From Startup Idea to National Brand

When BIG3 launched in 2017, many sports fans viewed it as an experiment.

The league introduced a fast-paced 3-on-3 format featuring former NBA players and basketball legends. Games emphasized physical play, shorter contests, and fan engagement.

Over the past nine years, BIG3 has developed into a recognized sports property. The league secured television partnerships, introduced city-based teams, and attracted former NBA stars. As a result, it established a unique position on the summer sports calendar.

Ice Cube has consistently described BIG3 as more than a basketball league. He sees it as a blend of sports, entertainment, culture, and business.

Why Going Public Matters

Most professional sports leagues remain privately owned. Billionaires, ownership groups, and corporations typically control franchises and league operations.

BIG3 wants to change that model.

By going public, the league plans to give fans a direct opportunity to participate in its growth. In addition, the company could raise capital to support expansion efforts, strengthen operations, and pursue international opportunities.

League executives believe public ownership could create a stronger connection between fans and the league’s future success.

Understanding the SPAC Merger

A SPAC is a publicly traded company created to merge with a private business and bring it to the stock market.

Under the proposed agreement:

BIG3 carries a valuation of approximately $290 million.
The combined company expects to trade under the ticker symbol TONT.
The merger could close during the fourth quarter of 2026.
Shareholders and regulators must approve the transaction before completion.

The structure allows BIG3 to enter public markets without pursuing a traditional initial public offering.

The Rise of 3-on-3 Basketball

The timing of the deal reflects the growing popularity of 3-on-3 basketball around the world.

The format debuted as an Olympic sport and continues to attract new fans globally. As interest grows, BIG3 hopes to establish itself as the premier professional 3-on-3 league.

The league also sees opportunities in media rights, sponsorship agreements, international events, and fan experiences.

Season Nine Begins June 20

While investors watch the merger process, basketball fans can focus on the upcoming season.

BIG3’s ninth season begins June 20 at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles. The league will once again feature former NBA players, fan favorites, and well-known basketball personalities.

The new season arrives at an important moment. BIG3 now stands at the intersection of sports, entertainment, and finance.

The Bottom Line

BIG3’s planned public debut represents a significant step for professional sports and sports investing.

The league has grown from an unconventional idea into a nationally recognized brand. Now, Ice Cube and his team want to bring fans even closer to the business side of the game.

If the merger closes as planned, BIG3 will enter a small group of sports organizations with direct access to public investors. That achievement could reshape how fans engage with professional sports for years to come.