The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame will honor Ice Cube by bestowing the “Ice Cube Impact Award” in his name. As an entrepreneur, Ice Cube co-founded the BIG3 basketball league with noted entertainment businessman Jeff Kwatinetz in 2017. The league has attracted 3-on-3 basketball athletes with international and NBA experience.
O’Shea Jackson Sr, aka Ice Cube, was a founding member of the legendary rap group N.W.A. with famous artists and producers Eazy-E (Eric Wright) and Dr. Dre (Andre Young). Later, he branched off into acting in John Singleton’s ‘Boyz N The Hood’ and wrote, directed, and acted in the highly successful Friday movies.
The inaugural Ice Cube Impact Award is a groundbreaking collaboration between the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame and the BIG3 basketball league visionary Ice Cube.
“I have had a deep love for basketball since my early years,” Ice Cube said. “When I embarked on the BIG3 journey, I never anticipated it would culminate to the level of having an award from the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame named after me. I am genuinely elated and honored.”
The award aims to recognize Ice Cube’s remarkable contributions to basketball, unparalleled passion for the game, steadfast commitment to fostering dialogues on inclusivity, equal opportunity, and racial and social justice, and significant contributions to education and community development initiatives.
“The Hall of Fame honors those whose contributions have had a significant impact on the sport at every level,” John Doleva, President and CEO of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, on creating an award on Ice Cube’s behalf. “The creation of the Ice Cube Impact Award further advances our foundational mission to preserve and promote the game of basketball and to be a force for positive change in the world. Ice Cube has created opportunities in basketball, music, and entertainment and continues to inspire millions through his efforts. This new exhibit and the annual trophy will honor both Ice Cube and the community leaders who use James Naismith’s ideals to build better communities.”
EVENT DETAILS
Sunday, January 14
Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame
1000 Hall of Fame Avenue | Springfield, MA | 01105
- 11:00 AM-12:15 PM – Clinic with local youth organizations at Center Court featuring Ice Cube and Hall of Famer and current BIG3 coach Nancy Lieberman [NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC]
- 1:00-2:00 PM – Hoophall Hangout at Center Court (Q&A with Ice Cube; hosted by Lieberman)
- 2:30-3:00 PM – Ribbon cutting ceremony and unveiling of the Ice Cube Impact Award exhibit in the Tip-Off Pavilion, followed by media availability
Monday, January 15
Springfield College – Blake Arena
263 Alden Street | Springfield, MA | 01109
- 12:30 PM – Media Availability in Room 117 (adjacent to Media Room 119)
- 1:00 PM – Halftime of Hoophall Classic – Ice Cube Award Presentation
About Ice Cube
Ice Cube, a legendary figure in the world of music and entertainment, has proven time and time again that his talents and passions extend far beyond the realm of music and movies. While initially gaining fame as a groundbreaking rap group N.W.A. member, Ice Cube has since carved out a multifaceted career that spans acting, directing, producing, and even sports ownership. Following N.W.A., Ice Cube pursued a successful solo music career. He later established himself as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry through his acting roles and contributions to filmmaking, starring in numerous films such as “Boyz n the Hood,” “Friday,” and “Barbershop.” In 2017, he co-founded the BIG3, which aimed to bring an exciting 3-on-3 basketball league featuring former NBA stars and other professional players to fans. Among Ice Cube’s many awards and honors, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of N.W.A. in 2016 and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2017.
