Ice Cube, the renowned rapper, actor, and entrepreneur, has been making waves in the sports and entertainment industry with his innovative 3-on-3 basketball league, BIG3. Recently certified as a Black-owned and operated business, the league achieved a historic milestone as the first and only sports organization to receive such recognition from ByBlack and US Black Chambers.
Despite this significant accomplishment, Ice Cube has taken to Twitter to express his frustration with what he refers to as the “Gatekeepers” of the entertainment industry. In a series of candid tweets, the iconic artist called out individuals who have tried to hinder his progress and limit his success.
Ice Cube made it clear that he refuses to conform to the norms and expectations of the industry establishment, boldly stating, “Some of you may not have realized that I’m not part of the club. A lot of you listening to me right now, you’re not a part of the club either. What I realize with the club is what makes them so mad is when you don’t want to be a part of their f***ing club.”
The rapper went on to mention his ongoing contract with BlackAmerica and how it has drawn the ire of the Gatekeepers. While he did not provide specific details, Ice Cube expressed his frustrations, stating, “Ever since I put out the contract with Black America, you know they’ve been fing with me. I’ve been working on the BIG3 for a long time, and you know how they’ve been fing with me with that.”
In a direct message to the NBA, Ice Cube requested that they stop working against the BIG3, without elaborating on the specifics of their alleged interference. His public statement hints at underlying tensions and obstacles faced by the league as it continues to revolutionize the sports industry.
Ice Cube’s BIG3 has made significant strides since its launch in 2017, capturing the attention of fans worldwide. The recent conclusion of its fifth season and the introduction of ownership-like franchise takes powered by blockchain technology demonstrate the league’s ongoing commitment to innovation and growth. Notable figures, including SnoopDogg, Ken Howery, Gary Vaynerchuk, and DeGods, have shown their support by purchasing team ownership.
With equity partners that distinguish the BIG3 from other professional sports leagues, Ice Cube has created an operational structure that challenges the traditional gatekeeping mechanisms. His Contract with Black America Institute has also facilitated collaborations with major organizations like the NFL, focusing on empowering Black-owned businesses and fostering equity in finance and technology industries.
In a daring move, Ice Cube threatened to expose the NBA and other gatekeepers, indicating his intention to conduct interviews that shed light on their alleged practices. As fans eagerly await further developments, the rapper’s determination to break barriers and champion independence promises to shake the foundations of the entertainment industry.
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Written by:
Dana Sterling-Editor
