The BIG3 basketball league has announced a major partnership with iHeartMedia that will bring its games and content to new audiences through iHeartMedia’s expansive multiplatform network. As part of the agreement, iHeartRadio will serve as the official audio home of BIG3 games. The league’s eighth season tips off Saturday, June 14 airing live on CBS with play-by-play coverage streamed on iHeartRadio. Two additional hours of live action will follow on VICE TV.
“This partnership is the culmination of a years-long valued relationship, and I could not be more pleased to be taking things to the next level this summer through this substantial deal,” said BIG3 CEO Ice Cube. “iHeart has the incredible capacity to reach hundreds of millions of potential BIG3 fans — their audience network is unparalleled. Not only do they offer music and entertainment, but also top-tier sports analysis and commentary across platforms.”
Moreover, the deal includes a season-long cross-marketing collaboration between the two brands. iHeartMedia will promote BIG3 nationally across its various platforms, including broadcast radio, podcasts, digital, social media and live events — with a strong emphasis in key markets like Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago and Dallas.
As part of the agreement, iHeartMedia will receive the official national jersey patch on all eight of BIG3’s newly formed city-based teams. The sponsorship also includes high-visibility branding on courts and in arenas, featured appearances by BIG3 personalities on radio and podcasts, VIP hospitality packages, exclusive contests, giveaways and more.
“We are very excited about our new partnership with BIG3 and having the opportunity to provide play-by-play coverage and promotional support to build further brand awareness,” said Conal Byrne, CEO of iHeart’s Digital Audio Group. “We look forward to bringing the passion and excitement of BIG3 to our listeners on a local and national level week after week.”
BIG3 President Jeff Kwatinetz noted the significant potential of the partnership, emphasizing the reach and influence of iHeart’s podcast and streaming platforms.
“iHeart recognizes that the BIG3 audience is expansive and valuable,” Kwatinetz said. “Everyone who experiences a live game — in person, on TV, or now via audio — becomes a fan for life.”
Echoing that sentiment, Mike Biondo, President of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships at iHeartMedia, called the collaboration a natural fit.
“BIG3 represents the kind of innovation, energy and cultural relevance that we believe will resonate with iHeart audiences coast to coast,” Biondo said. “We’re thrilled to bring the excitement of 3-on-3 basketball to millions of fans through our audio platforms.”
The announcement follows the 2025 BIG3 Draft, held earlier this month in Las Vegas. There, the league’s eight new franchises finalized their five-man rosters in what is being called the most physical and competitive draft class in BIG3 history. Notable names include NBA veteran Dwight Howard, four-time All-Star Kemba Walker, Lance Stephenson, Montrezl Harrell and former fourth overall pick Wes Johnson.
With a powerful new partner and a star-studded roster, the BIG3 is set to make its biggest impact yet in 2025.
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