A single ray of hope is enough of a savior amid looming clouds of uncertainty. And Sports Illustrated’s print department found that hope with Minute Media acquiring its publishing rights. As part of the partnership deal with SI’s parent company, Authentic Brands Group (ABG), Minute Media will now have publishing rights to both print and digital segments of SI. Ex-NBA player Allen Iverson, who is also a partner of the ABG has also welcomed the deal.

Iverson has termed the partnership as a “Power move”. Taking to his official Instagram account, Iverson posted a cover of SI magazine’s article on himself and Larry Brown. “Power move for @sportsillustrated partnering with @weareauthentic @jamiejsalter and @minute_media,” read the caption to the post by Allen Iverson. Notably, Jamie Salter is the founder, chairman and CEO of the ABG.

Iverson’s support for the deal is understandable. His partnership with ABG was what eventually led him to the position of Reebok’s VP. Notably, the ex-Philadelphia 76ers star had signed a lifelong deal with Reebok back in 2001. However, the German sporting goods company was sold to the Authentic Brands Group in 2021. Subsequently, in 2023, ABG partnered with Allen Iverson.

As per a press release by Authentic Newsroom, the partnership aimed to further develop Allen Iverson’s brand. “Through the partnership, Authentic will focus on growing Iverson’s entertainment business, securing new endorsements and strategic partnerships, as well as consumer products that are as electrifying and original as the man himself,” read the press release.

Now it will be interesting to see what the ABG brings out from its ‘long term partnership’ with Minute Media.

Chain of events that led to ABG-Minute Media partnership

It all began with Sports Illustrated’s former publisher, The Arena Group, failing to pay its licensing fee for publishing rights to ABG. Subsequently, the Authentic Brands Group revoked The Arena’s license to publish SI magazine. This move was what created a situation of uncertainty for the SI print department.

Read More: “So Excited”: Tom Brady Endorses Sports Illustrated’s New Partnership as He Delivers a Personal Message

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However, the ABG’s search for a new publisher did not have to be much long. The Authentic not only found a publisher for SI’s print and digital segment but is also likely to acquire an equity stake in Minute Media. It is worth mentioning that Minute Media is also the publisher for some other sports brands like The Players’ Tribune, FanSided, 90min, etc.

And the Minute Media CEO stating, “At Minute Media, our focus will be to take that legacy (SI) into new, emerging channels enhancing visibility, commercial viability and sustainable impact…” reflects the new possibilities in the world of sports content.

Read More: Allen Iverson Wears His Heart on His Sleeve as LeBron James’ Praise Receives Emotional Response