( ENSPIRE Entertainment ) BIG3 Basketball Sees Surge in Ratings and Attendance to Start Sixth Season
ENSPIRE Contributor: Daniel Garritson
The BIG3, the premier global 3-on-3 basketball league playing “Fireball,” is off to a tremendous start in its sixth season, seeing substantial increases in television viewership and live attendance. BIG3 isn’t your grandfather’s 3-on-3; differing from the 3-on-3 rules established by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), including the addition of a 4-point zone and a pregame do-or-die 4-point shootout to determine the designated “home” team. With additional rules beyond these to establish its unique style of play, this game is designated as “Fireball 3”, stylized as FIREBALL3.
“We’re thrilled to see this continued interest and growth as we start season six,” said BIG3 co-founder Ice Cube. “It’s a testament to the highly competitive and entertaining product we put on the court each week. This season is the best yet.”
The league features many of the most popular and skilled 3-on-3 players worldwide, including Joe Johnson, Leandro Barbosa, and Michael Beasley, coached by Hall of Fame legends such as Julius “Dr. J” Erving, Rick Barry, Lisa Leslie, Nancy Lieberman, Gary Payton, and more. It combines highly competitive basketball with a fun, fan-friendly environment.
“Our fans have been eager to get back to experiencing the BIG3 in person,” said league co-founder Jeff Kwatinetz. “Their energy and excitement have been palpable in each city so far.”
This season BIG3 pays tribute to the 50th anniversary of Rap and Hip Hop. The first four weeks have included musical performances by Hip Hop artists Ja Rule, KRS-One, M.O.P, NLE Choppa, Big Boogie, Twista, Dorrough, Mike Jones, Scar Lip, and of course, Ice Cube. It has also featured Monster Energy athletes, along with dancers, cheerleaders, dunkers, and many others.
With its early momentum, the BIG3 looks to build on its position as a one-of-a-kind, world-class basketball league connecting with live crowds and TV audiences. After falling attendance at games during the COVID-19 pandemic, viewership and attendance have increased substantially for BIG3 games. These games can be found streaming on cable on CBS, streaming through Paramount+, and at TV.BIG3.COM, the league’s own website and streaming destination.
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