Ice Cube, the co-founder of the BIG3 basketball league, has publicly accused the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) of blocking a highly anticipated match between the BIG3 All-Stars and the Netherlands’ Olympic 3×3 basketball champions. The challenge, which was set to take place in Boston on August 18th, has been met with resistance from FIBA, leading to a heated exchange between the two parties.
Following the Netherlands’ impressive gold medal victory at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Ice Cube extended an invitation to the Dutch team to compete against the BIG3 All-Stars. The Dutch team, consisting of Jan Driessen, Dimeo van der Horst, Arvin Slagter, and Worthy de Jong, accepted the challenge, setting the stage for an exciting showdown.
However, FIBA intervened, threatening to expel the Netherlands from the FIBA 3×3 Europe Cup if they participated in the friendly match against the BIG3. This move has sparked controversy, with Ice Cube and BIG3 President Jeff Kwatinetz accusing FIBA of being “scared” of the BIG3’s prowess.
Politicians like FIBA shouldn’t be over sports. Especially if they’re scary little bitches. https://t.co/UzovscU4vf
— Ice Cube (@icecube) August 11, 2024
Ice Cube did not hold back in his criticism of FIBA, stating, “FIBA is scared of the BIG3.” He expressed his frustration on social media, highlighting the organization’s reluctance to allow the match to proceed. Kwatinetz echoed these sentiments, questioning what FIBA was afraid of and criticizing their decision to block the game.
Ice Cube announced that the Netherlands accepted his challenge to play against the Big3 All-Stars, but FIBA is reportedly trying to block the game
(h/t @Ballislife) pic.twitter.com/PegQ4fWk1F
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) August 12, 2024
This isn’t the first time the BIG3 has clashed with FIBA. In 2019, the league faced similar issues when 3×3 legend Dušan Bulut was pressured to withdraw from joining the BIG3 to maintain his eligibility for the Tokyo Olympics. Despite these challenges, Bulut eventually made his BIG3 debut in 2021.
The current standoff highlights ongoing tensions between the innovative BIG3 league and traditional basketball governing bodies. While logistical concerns and the risk of injury to key players may have influenced FIBA’s decision, the situation underscores the need for greater collaboration and flexibility in the world of basketball.
