BIG3 co-founder Ice Cube has addressed the chaotic scenes that unfolded during Miami 305’s season-opening game against LA Riot, confirming that Michael Beasley and Lance Stephenson have both been suspended following their involvement in an on-court altercation.
In a statement shared on social media, Ice Cube apologized to fans for the incident and posted an announcement from the league commissioner regarding disciplinary action.
“Apologies to everybody watching the Miami 305 vs. LA Riot game. We all wanted to see a great basketball game. That wasn’t it,” Ice Cube wrote.
According to the league, Beasley and Stephenson failed to meet the professional standards expected of BIG3 players. Both players received one-game suspensions, although they will serve them in different weeks to ensure Miami 305 has enough available players to meet roster requirements.
The incident occurred during Saturday’s matchup when tensions escalated between players from both teams. Beasley became involved in a heated confrontation with former NBA center Dwight Howard, while Stephenson was ejected after throwing a punch at Jordan Crawford following a hard foul.
As a result of multiple ejections, Miami 305 was left with only two eligible players and was forced to forfeit the game, handing LA Riot the victory.
Following the controversy, Beasley issued a public apology through a video posted on Instagram. He expressed regret for his actions and apologized to Ice Cube, the league commissioner, and the broadcast network.
“On my part, to Ice Cube, to Clyde, to CBS, to BIG3, to the player, I don’t want you to think that I don’t take responsibility,” he said.
“I do apologize to Cube, to CBS, to Clyde, to all the players and fans. Y’all don’t deserve that no matter what we’re going through. We should be able to handle that behind closed doors. Dwight, man, you are one of my heroes. So, my bad to let my emotions get the best of me.”
The suspension is a setback for Beasley, who enjoyed a successful return to competitive basketball in the BIG3. Last season, he helped lead Miami 305 to the league championship and re-established himself as one of the competition’s top players.
The BIG3 has become an important platform for former NBA players looking to continue their careers in the United States, providing opportunities for veterans who are no longer part of NBA rosters.
