BIG3 Launches Detroit Amplifiers at Little Caesars Arena with Star Roster 2025

A new era of professional basketball is tipping off in Detroit as the Amplifiers make their home debut in the BIG3 league.

Detroit basketball fans are about to witness history as the city’s official BIG3 franchise, the Detroit Amplifiers (“Amps”), prepares for its first-ever home game at Little Caesars Arena on Sunday, July 20. The Amps will host an electrifying afternoon of 3-on-3 pro basketball as part of the BIG3's nationally televised Summer in the City tour.

A New Era for Motor City Hoops

The Amps will tip off at 5:00 PM ET, led by Hall of Famer and Head Coach George "The Iceman" Gervin. The roster boasts star power with 7-time NBA All-Star Joe Johnson, dynamic guard Jeremy Pargo, and NCAA champion Darnell Jackson. Detroit’s squad also features recent draft picks Ray Nixon, a sharpshooting forward, and Shakur Juiston, a high-energy defender and rebounder.

Fans can expect four 50-minute, fast-paced and competitive 3-on-3 basketball games, halftime performances from top musical artists—including a possible appearance by BIG3 co-founder Ice Cube himself and face time with legends like Dwight Howard, Nancy Lieberman, Nick Young,  and other hall-of-fame caliber players and coaches. The event promises elite competition, four-point shots, high-energy entertainment, and an unforgettable fan experience.

A Team Built for Detroit

The Amps’ roster is designed for excitement and grit:

• Jeremy Pargo (Captain): A dynamic guard and BIG3 single-season 4-point record holder, known for leadership and clutch scoring.

• Darnell Jackson (Co-Captain): Former NCAA champion, a physical presence in the paint, and vocal team leader.

• Joe Johnson (Co-Captain): Seven-time NBA All-Star, three-time BIG3 MVP, and one of the league’s most respected scorers.

• Ray Nixon: 2025 BIG3 3rd overall draft pick, led the league in three-point shooting percentage last season.

• Shakur Juiston: 2025 BIG3 14th overall draft pick, known for rebounding and defensive energy.

George Gervin, Head Coach, highlighted the roster’s potential:

“These two guys complete the puzzle,” said Gervin, referring to Nixon and Juiston.

Ray Nixon, sharpshooting forward, expressed his excitement:

“It’s an honor to be part of the Detroit Amplifiers. I’ve worked hard to stay in this league, and now I get to play for a legendary coach like Ice Man. I’m thankful to the owners, coaches, and captains who believed in me—and I’m ready to go to battle for this city,” said Nixon.

Shakur Juiston, high-energy defender and rebounder, added:

“I’m excited to bring my ‘do anything to help win’ mentality to this talented team. Playing for Coach Gervin is an honor he’s a real OG. I’m here to compete for a championship and represent Detroit the right way,” said Juiston.

TJ Lang, Amps Ownership Group Member, captured the city’s excitement:

“This is more than a game. It’s a celebration of Detroit basketball and the fans who live and breathe it. We’re proud to bring the BIG3 to Little Caesars Arena and give our hometown something special to rally around. It’s an exciting time for Detroit sports, and the Amps are ready to add to that momentum. I’m calling for the city to come out, support this team, and show the BIG3 how we do it in Detroit,” said Lang.

More Than Just Basketball

The July 20 event is about more than just the game. Fans will enjoy live music, exclusive Amps merchandise, and interactive activations. Doors open at 2:00 PM ET, with gameplay starting at 3:00 PM ET live on CBS and iHeartRadio, and VICE TV coverage beginning at 6:30 PM ET.

Tickets are available now at BIG3.com/tickets. Follow @DetroitAmps and @theBIG3 on Instagram and X for exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes access, and all the latest team news as the season approaches.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of Detroit sports history and witness the rise of the Amps, Motor City’s newest pro basketball team.