What's Happening?
Boardroom, a digital media platform founded by NBA star Kevin Durant and his business manager Rich Kleiman, is set to launch a print magazine. This move marks a reverse trend from the typical migration of print media to digital formats. The magazine will debut with a trial issue featuring tennis star Aryna Sabalenka and plans to publish quarterly starting in 2026. Boardroom, established in 2019, focuses on athletes, musicians, film stars, and entertainers, blending sports with popular culture. The print magazine aims to add a premium touch to the brand, leveraging the saturated digital landscape to create a unique physical presence.
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Why It's Important?
The launch of Boardroom's print magazine signifies a strategic shift in media consumption, highlighting the enduring value of physical publications amidst digital saturation. This initiative could influence other digital platforms to explore print media as a means of enhancing brand prestige and marketing appeal. While not intended as a primary revenue source, the magazine could strengthen Boardroom's market position by offering a tangible product that complements its digital offerings. This move reflects broader trends where print media is experiencing a resurgence, akin to the revival of vinyl records, suggesting a niche market for physical media in the digital age.
What's Next?
Boardroom's print magazine will first be available at the U.S. Open Tennis Championships and a sports business conference in Los Angeles. The initial 'mini mag' will run 50 pages, with plans for a 120-page quarterly edition next year. The magazine will utilize existing staff from Boardroom's digital operations, indicating a streamlined approach to content creation. As the publication gains traction, it may attract partnerships and sponsorships, potentially influencing the media landscape by demonstrating the viability of print media in a digital-centric world.
Beyond the Headlines
The decision to launch a print magazine could have cultural implications, reinforcing the intersection of sports and entertainment. Boardroom's content strategy, which includes stories on sports figures and cultural icons, may contribute to the evolving narrative of sports as a component of popular culture. This initiative could also spark discussions on the sustainability and environmental impact of print media, prompting industry-wide considerations on balancing digital and physical formats.
