SPRINGFIELD, MASS. – The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, in collaboration with trailblazing rap icon, acclaimed blockbuster film producer and actor, entrepreneur, and co-founder of the BIG3 basketball league, Ice Cube, is excited to unveil a groundbreaking partnership resulting in the creation of the inaugural Ice Cube Impact Award.

This unprecedented collaboration aims to celebrate Ice Cube’s exceptional contributions to the basketball world, his unmatched passion for the game, and his steadfast dedication to fostering essential conversations on inclusivity, equal opportunities, and racial and social justice. Simultaneously, it recognizes his efforts in supporting initiatives centered around education and community development.

Receiving this prestigious award, Ice Cube expressed his gratitude, saying, “The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Award named in my honor is truly remarkable, and words alone can’t express my gratitude for this recognition from such a prestigious organization. Having an award bearing my name only intensifies my commitment to advancing inclusivity and equal opportunity in sports, alongside my unwavering dedication to community activism.”

The Naismith Hall of Fame will permanently showcase and highlight the Ice Cube Impact Award in its museum. Additionally, it will annually honor subsequent award recipients through a dedicated exhibit and comprehensive storytelling about honorees who utilize basketball as a platform for positive change in their communities.

John L. Doleva, President and CEO of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, commended Ice Cube’s passion for the game and his vision to leverage it as a catalyst for positive change. Doleva stated, “His sphere of influence in both the entertainment industry and in the professional sports arena brings remarkable authenticity and value to this award. We are delighted to join hands with Ice Cube as he leverages his love of the game to inspire others. The Ice Cube Impact Award will stand as a testament to the power of basketball and the profound impact it can have on communities worldwide.”

Ice Cube’s transformative journey in the basketball world has left an indelible mark. As the visionary founder of the BIG3, he established a professional league featuring the game’s proven bests—Hall of Famers, World Champions, and All-Stars. The BIG3 has not only launched and revitalized careers but has also opened doors for players and coaches eager to contribute positively to the game. His innovative approach, blending streetball and professional basketball, highlights the tremendous power of sports in uniting communities, exemplified by the Young3 program focusing on youth in underserved areas.