Joe Johnson credits Ice Cube, BIG3 for NBA return

Joe Johnson is back in the NBA at the age of 40 and believes his time in the BIG3 basketball league is a big reason why.

The seven-time All-Star - who signed a 10-day contract with the Boston Celtics - showed his appreciation to the BIG3 and its founder, Ice Cube, on Wednesday night after appearing in his first NBA game since 2018.

"The BIG3 was everything for me," Johnson said. "Shoutout to Ice Cube for allowing me and giving me a chance to put my skills on display, man, and go out and have fun every weekend. That was special. I got a chance to play with guys that I hadn't played with since college.

"Competing every weekend in the BIG3 was awesome - I mean, it's still fun, don't get me wrong, I love it. If it wasn't for that, I probably wouldn't be here right now, so I appreciate Cube for that."

During his time in the BIG3, Johnson won MVP awards and a championship as a member of the Triplets. He also holds the BIG3 records for most points scored in a single game and a single season.