Ice Cube Featured at Naismith Memorial Basketball Clinic ahead of Inaugural Ceremony

The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall Of Fame hosted a youth basketball clinic for local organizations on Sunday, featuring rapper and film producer Ice Cube, along with hall of famer and current BIG3 coach Nancy Lieberman.

Ice Cube, a co-founder of the BIG3 league, a professional 3-on-3 basketball program that includes hall of famers, veterans, and overseas players, actively participated in the clinic. The event provided an opportunity for young athletes from local organizations to engage in various basketball drills and activities, enhancing their skills under the guidance of experienced professionals.

The clinic included activities such as dribbling and layup drills, as well as shooting exercises. Participants expressed their excitement and gratitude for the chance to learn from accomplished individuals in the basketball community.

“To be here is a major opportunity,” said Follow My Steps member Brandon Smith. “I’ve always wanted to meet Ice Cube, and to be around people with success, these collegiate players, it’s just a major opportunity because they can help further my basketball skills.”

Members of the Springfield Ballers shared their perspectives on the significance of the event. McKinley Jaheer emphasized the sense of camaraderie in basketball, saying, “One reason I love about basketball is because you get so many more opportunities and make so many more friends.” Harper Brouillette highlighted the event’s impact on personal improvement, stating, “It just shows how much improvement I’ve worked on.”

During a Q&A session on Sunday afternoon, Ice Cube reflected on the creation of the BIG3 league and its unique concept. “What would a league look like of guys who may not be in the NBA but still could play the game? And then we thought of 3-on-3 and started to ask ourselves why it hasn’t been elevated to the professional level? And there were no answers, so we decided to do it.”

In recognition of his significant contributions to the game of basketball, Ice Cube will be honored on Monday with the inaugural “Ice Cube Impact Award.” This award is dedicated to individuals who have made substantial positive contributions to the growth of basketball.

The ceremony not only celebrates the achievements of Ice Cube but also acknowledges the positive impact of those who have dedicated themselves to fostering the development and popularity of the sport.