Ice Cube, the former N.W.A. rapper turned basketball league owner, has extended a compelling invitation to NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal to join his Big 3 league. This invitation comes on the heels of Shaq expressing interest in returning to the court and playing in the legends league.
Ice Cube, in a message on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), wrote, “We got the contract ready for you, big fella. You got three months to get Diesel. You can eat all day in @thebig3 @SHAQ.”
Shaquille O’Neal, during a conversation on Ice Cube’s Big podcast with former Miami Heat guard Mario Chalmers, openly contemplated the idea of playing in the Big 3 league. Despite sounding somewhat hesitant, Shaq engaged in the discussion, asking Chalmers, “You think I can play in the Big 3?” Chalmers responded affirmatively, suggesting that Shaq join him and Mike Beasley on the court, assuring him that he wouldn’t need to do much besides holding his ground in the paint.
However, Shaq expressed reservations due to his recent hip surgery and the considerable time since his last professional game, stating, “I just had hip surgery and I ain’t played since. I don’t think I can get back in that mood.”
If Shaquille O’Neal were to join the Big 3 league, it would undoubtedly be a significant acquisition for the league. Having retired from the NBA 13 years ago, Shaq remains one of the most recognizable and celebrated figures in basketball. His presence would add immense star power to a league already featuring former stars like Joe Johnson, Rashard Lewis, and Jason Richardson.
Ice Cube, the founder of the Big 3 league, has openly expressed admiration for Shaq, even naming him one of the five greatest basketball players of all time. In the past, Ice Cube has stated, “I love Michael Jordan. I love Kobe; Shaq [is] incredible.” He further added, “After that, it just starts to get a little blurry for me. But you know, Magic Johnson, he’s definitely out there as one of my favorites. And I love the Iceman, George Gervin.”
In recent times, Ice Cube and his Big 3 league have faced challenges, including alleged attempts by the NBA to undermine their progress. Ice Cube has accused the NBA of discouraging potential sponsors and television networks from collaborating with the Big 3, prompting an official investigation into possible antitrust violations by the NBA.
As the saga between Ice Cube’s Big 3 league and the NBA continues, the potential addition of Shaquille O’Neal could inject new excitement and energy into the world of basketball. Fans eagerly await Shaq’s decision and the next chapter in the ongoing narrative between these basketball giants.
We got the contract ready for you big fella. You got 3 months to get Diesal. You can eat all day in @thebig3 @SHAQ https://t.co/7TP2LCsiCq
— Ice Cube (@icecube) March 17, 2024
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