Ice Cube: Carmelo Anthony Welcome in BIG3, but 'Should Be in the NBA'

As the BIG3 prepares for expansion in 2019, co-founder Ice Cube would be happy to create space on a roster for Carmelo Anthony if he wants to join. 

Speaking to TMZ Sports, Ice Cube expressed his desire to have Anthony but admitted the 34-year-old can still play in the NBA. 

"Of course, we'd accept him," Ice Cube said. "But, he still could play in the NBA, he should be in the NBA."

The BIG3 announced last week it was expanding from eight to 12 teams for the 2019 season and the age of eligibility will now be 27, along with NBA or any professional international experience. 

Anthony remains under contract with the Houston Rockets, but he hasn't played in a game since Nov. 8. Rockets general manager Daryl Morey announced on Nov. 15 they intended to part ways with the 10-time All-Star. 

Per ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, Anthony will remain on Houston's roster and wait for potential options—trades, injuries, etc.—to provide a potential landing spot for him. The NBA trade deadline is Feb. 7 at 3 p.m. ET. 

Anthony struggled during his brief tenure in Houston. He averaged 13.4 points, 5.4 rebounds and shot 40.5 percent in 10 games.