Joe Johnson Drops 30 in Big3 Showdown in Baltimore

Ice Cube’s three-on-three hoop league amps up with Mike Beasley facing Detroit this Sunday

By Reshmi Das

Game 1 Sets Tone

In the season opener of Ice Cube’s three-on-three league, former NBA All-Star Joe Johnson poured in a 30-point “BURGER,” the league’s new term for 30-plus scoring nights. TheBig3’s Instagram feed teased the performance with the caption: “A 30 BURGER in game 1. 👀 Who’s the real MVP of the @thebig3? Find out Sunday in Baltimore. Joe Johnson vs Mike Beasley. Detroit vs Miami.” The accompanying image shows Johnson rising for a jumper over a defender, the crowd erupting behind him.

Instagram Post by @thebig3

Ice Cube’s Vision For 3-on-3

Rapper-turned-entrepreneur Ice Cube (born O’Shea Jackson) co-founded the Big3 in 2017 alongside entertainment executive Jeff Kwatinetz. The league features eight teams of retired NBA talent competing in half-court, 3-on-3 matchups with unique rules like four-point shots and an 18-second shot clock. Cube’s goal: deliver high-stakes, fast-paced basketball that bridges streetball flair and pro-level competition.

According to Wikipedia, Ice Cube has produced several films and continues to expand his sports ventures. The Big3 carries his signature blend of pop-culture entertainment and athletic showcase, with live DJs, music performances, and mic’ed-up commentary enhancing the fan experience.

Baltimore Rematch This Sunday

After Detroit’s Joe Johnson-starred opener, attention turns to Johnson’s Detroit teammates facing Miami’s Mike Beasley. TheBig3’s Week 2 hype leverages Baltimore’s passionate fans.

Instagram Post by @thebig3

That post reads: “BALTIMORE, get ready! 🔥 Week 2 is almost here! Which matchup are you most hyped for? Grab your tickets via the link in our bio!”

Tip-off for Detroit vs. Miami is set for Sunday at Royal Farms Arena, with broadcast coverage on CBS Sports and Vice TV. Beasley, a one-time Miami Heat standout, will look to counter Johnson’s hot hand and stake his own MVP claim.

As Ice Cube’s league enters its second weekend, the MVP debate is wide open. Will Johnson’s 30-point barrage carry him to early favorite status, or will Beasley’s slashing style steal the headlines in Baltimore?

Ice Cube’s Big3 returns this Sunday with another marquee matchup anchored by two former NBA stars. Fans can expect more high-octane offense, unique scoring rules, and that signature Cube entertainment.

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Ice Cube's influence extends beyond music and film; he is also known for his engagement in community activism.
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Reshmi Das has over four years of experience as a content writer, covering parenting and films. She writes for Hollywoodjunction and Momjunction. Her interest in journaling and writing made this biotechnology postgraduate to take up content as her full-time profession.

Read full bio of Reshmi Das
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