BIG3 Basketball to Go Public Through Business Combination With Graf Global Corp.
SPORTS
BIG3 and Graf Global Corp. enter Business Combination Agreement.
BIG3, the professional 3‑on‑3 basketball league created by Ice Cube and Jeff Kwatinetz, has announced plans to become a publicly traded company through a definitive business combination agreement with Graf Global Corp., a publicly listed special purpose acquisition company. The move marks a major milestone for the league, which has spent the past seven years building a unique, entertainment‑driven sports property with a growing global audience.
The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to customary approvals. Once completed, the combined company will operate under the BIG3 name and trade on the New York Stock Exchange. For a league that has consistently positioned itself as a disruptor in the sports world, going public represents both validation and acceleration.
A League Built on Innovation and Cultural Influence
Since launching in 2017, BIG3 has differentiated itself with a fast‑paced 3‑on‑3 format, a roster of former NBA stars and international standouts, and a fan experience that blends sports, entertainment, and culture. The league has introduced innovations such as the 4‑point shot, Fireball3 rules, and a touring model that brings games to cities across the U.S.
According to the announcement, BIG3 has built a strong foundation of:
Consistent fan engagement, both in‑arena and across digital platforms
High‑profile ownership groups, including celebrities, athletes, and business leaders
A growing global footprint, with international expansion on the horizon
A culturally resonant brand, driven by Ice Cube’s creative leadership
The business combination is designed to fuel the next phase of that growth.
Why BIG3 Is Going Public Now
The decision to go public through Graf Global Corp. reflects BIG3’s ambition to scale its operations, expand its audience, and deepen its commercial partnerships. The transaction is expected to provide capital for:
League expansion and team development
Enhanced broadcast and digital distribution
International growth initiatives
New fan‑engagement technologies
Marketing and brand partnerships
BIG3 leadership emphasized that the league is entering a period of strong momentum, making this the right moment to bring in public investors and accelerate long‑term strategy.
Leadership Perspective
Ice Cube and Jeff Kwatinetz have consistently positioned BIG3 as a league built for modern sports fans, one that blends competition, entertainment, and cultural relevance. The Business Wire announcement highlights their belief that going public will strengthen BIG3’s ability to innovate, attract talent, and expand its global presence.
Graf Global Corp. leadership echoed this sentiment, noting that BIG3 represents a compelling opportunity in the sports and entertainment sector, with a differentiated product and strong brand equity.
A New Era for BIG3
With the planned business combination, BIG3 is preparing to enter a new era, one defined by broader visibility, increased investment, and expanded opportunities for fans, players, and partners. As the league moves toward becoming a publicly traded company, it continues to position itself as a bold, culturally driven force in professional sports.
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