The Big3 and Baltimore have found each other once again.

After making a stop at CFG Bank Arena last year, the Big3 returned to Baltimore for Week 2 of the 2025 season, hosting four games Sunday.

Founded in 2017 by rapper, actor and filmmaker Ice Cube and entertainment executive Jeff Kwatinetz, the league features 3-on-3 games with former NBA and international players playing under unique rules, including a four-point shot.

“It’s basketball,” said Maurice White, of Baltimore, who brought his two sons to the games. “Both of them play, so it’s definitely well needed.”

The Big3’s presence is just the latest example of a growing trend: Baltimore is buying into basketball. It started with a $250 million renovation of CFG Bank Arena, reviving the venue and making it a premier destination in the city for both sports and concerts, with updated seating, suites and concessions.

The renovations became a key selling point as the city worked with the CIAA to host its postseason basketball tournaments. Since the event moved after 15 years in Charlotte, North Carolina, Baltimore has become its home, with the city and conference reaching an agreement to host the tournament through 2029.

“All you have to do is look up, the people support,” NBA Hall of Famer George Gervin said after his team, the Detroit Amps, defeated Miami 305, 50-47, in Sunday’s opening game. “It’s a great city. The people are passionate, and they show out.”

In addition to the Big3 and CIAA, other leagues are following suit and bringing high-profile basketball back to Baltimore.

The Washington Mystics moved two of their home games this season to CFG Bank Arena. Both games feature the Indiana Fever, led by reigning WNBA Rookie of the Year and All-Star Caitlin Clark. Although Clark missed the first matchup because of a left quadriceps strain, Baltimore will welcome her and the Fever again on Sept. 7.

The arena will also host two Division I men’s basketball games on Nov. 15 as part of the Naismith Hall of Fame Series. The doubleheader will feature Maryland vs. Coppin State and Towson vs. Loyola as part of a two-year agreement.

“It wasn’t only right — it was smart,” Ice Cube said of choosing Baltimore as a location. “(Basketball) hasn’t really been here since the Bullets, so it’s been great to have something here. Other leagues need to follow the leader.”

Looking around the arena and seeing most fans seated and engaged for all four games, Ice Cube, players and fans were in agreement that Baltimore craves and embraces basketball, and the league is sure to return.

“It’s always a nice crowd here. The people bring the energy,” Ice Cube said. “We’re looking to grow the league here.”

Several former NBA players traveled to the city for the event, and excitement rippled through the crowd as Ravens second-round draft pick Mike Green and his friends enjoyed the action from a suite before heading down to snap a photo with Ice Cube.

“It’s good for us to be here,” two-time NBA champion Mario Chalmers, who plays for Miami 305, said. “It’s something for the community to do, and it’s for a good cause. Baltimore’s always a fun time.”

Fans are already floating the idea of Baltimore being considered for WNBA expansion. After the league added a team in San Francisco this season, with expansion teams planned for Portland and Toronto, some see Baltimore as a natural next step.

“Look at what we do for the Ravens, we’ve shown how much we ride for our teams here,” White said. “Baltimore is a great sports town. We’re ready.”

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