Ice Cube Says BIG3 Doesn’t Have $5 Million for Angel Reese Like It Did for Caitlin Clark, Sparking Debate on Value and Visibility in Women’s Basketball

In a recent interview, BIG3 founder and hip-hop icon Ice Cube confirmed that his league is no longer offering the $5 million contract it once extended to Caitlin Clark—and that Angel Reese shouldn’t expect the same deal. The remark has sparked a fresh wave of conversation around value, visibility, and the evolving economics of women’s basketball.

Just months ago, Ice Cube made headlines by offering Clark a $5 million contract to play in the BIG3—an unprecedented offer for a female athlete to participate in a men’s-dominated 3-on-3 basketball league. The proposal was both a publicity move and a serious attempt to bring star power to the league. While Clark respectfully declined, the offer itself was seen as a landmark moment for women in sports.

But now, as Angel Reese’s fame skyrockets in the WNBA with the Chicago Sky—earning headlines, TV appearances, and massive fan support—fans have begun to wonder: Would Reese receive a similar offer?

Ice Cube answered that question bluntly.

“We don’t have that kind of money anymore,” he told reporters. “We offered that to Caitlin because the timing was right. The buzz, the visibility, the sponsorship interest—it all lined up. That was a unique moment.”

Fans React to the Comparison

The response online was immediate and divided.

Some fans criticized Ice Cube’s comments, suggesting that Reese is just as deserving—if not more—given her cultural impact, growing fanbase, and social media dominance.

“Angel Reese has changed the face of women’s basketball too,” one user tweeted. “Why does she get a different standard?”

Others defended Cube’s explanation, pointing out that his offer to Clark was a one-time strategic move and not a template for every rising star.

“He’s running a business, not handing out equality bonuses,” said another post. “It’s about market timing.”

Reese Stays Focused

Angel Reese has not publicly responded to Ice Cube’s comments, but based on her recent interviews, she seems laser-focused on her WNBA career. The 22-year-old rookie has been turning heads with her rebounding dominance and unapologetic swagger—drawing comparisons to Dennis Rodman and becoming a fan favorite almost overnight.

“I’m just going to keep being me,” Reese said in a recent press conference. “People will say what they want. I’ll let my game talk.”

A Bigger Question About Women’s Sports Value

The controversy has reignited debate over how female athletes are valued—both in terms of marketability and actual compensation. The fact that a women’s college player could receive a $5 million offer at all marked progress, but the absence of a similar opportunity for another rising star like Reese shows how fickle market-driven support can be.

Analysts have pointed out that Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are two of the biggest drivers of WNBA viewership and ticket sales this season. Their college rivalry, charisma, and cultural influence have injected new energy into the league.

“Both players are invaluable to women’s basketball,” said sports economist Dr. Jason Lee. “But when the offers come from private leagues like BIG3, it’s all about business, timing, and return on investment. That doesn’t always align with fairness.”

Final Thoughts

Ice Cube’s comments may have closed the door on a BIG3 deal for Angel Reese, but they’ve opened a larger conversation about how value is measured in women’s sports. As the WNBA continues to rise in popularity, and players like Reese, Clark, and others dominate headlines, one thing is clear: women’s basketball is no longer a side show—it’s the main event.

Whether in the WNBA or outside leagues like the BIG3, the attention, dollars, and expectations are growing. And players like Angel Reese are making sure that no one forgets that.