Tiger Woods Inducted into World Golf Hall of Fame
This weekend, the best names in golf will be vying for the trophy at The Players Championship. While two-time tournament winner Tiger Woods will be missing from the field, his impact on the game of golf continues to inspire the next generation of champions. On Wednesday, Woods’ 14-year old daughter Sam introduced him as he was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. In his speech, Woods credited his extensive support system with his success, which includes 15 majors and the PGA TOUR‘s first-ever Player Impact Program title among countless other accolades.
Steve Aoki Tapped as Orange Theory’s First-ever Chief Music Officer
Across the country, people have come to love Orange Theory for its signature interval workouts, and soon the soundtracks to their sweat sessions are about to get a whole lot better. Steve Aoki is joining the fitness chain as its first-ever chief music officer. As part of the partnership, the renowned DJ will curate the “musical vibe” at studios, starting on Mar 26. He will also work with instructors to develop a new 10-class series called “All Out with Aoki.”
British Government Freezes Roman Abramovich’s Assets, Chelsea Sale on Ice
Since reports emerged that Chelsea was being put up for sale, rumors have been buzzing about who the legendary club’s next owner could be. Everyone from Conor McGregor to Jets owner Woody Johnson has put their name in the hat for what is positioned to be the most expensive team sale in history. However, everything is on hold as the UK government has frozen owner Roman Abramovich‘s assets. The move directly impacts the sale and many other elements of Chelsea’s book of business, including transfers, contracts, and even merch and ticket sales. In the meantime, only season ticket holders will be able to attend the club’s games.
A24 Secures $225M Equity Investment at $2.5B Valuation
The studio behind hit films such as Uncut Gems and Euphoria announced that it has received a major investment to fuel diversity across its productions. A24 revealed that it successfully completed a $225 million investment round led by Stripes and advised by Goldman Sachs at a $2.5 billion valuation. Stripes’ founder Ken Fox will join A24’s board.
Italian Football Federation Inks a Deal with Adidas
The three stripes picked up another W this week. Adidas announced a new partnership with the Italian Football Federation, bumping Puma from its long-standing role. The details of the deal have not been released at this time, but early reports indicate that it is worth $25-38 million annually.
Klay Thompson Debuts US Store & New Shoe Drop
Klay Thompson is back on the court in vintage form. On Wednesday, the Warriors star unveiled his newest collab with Chinese sneaker company, Anta, launching his new U.S. shop. The All-Star shooting guard also dropped his newest shoe, the KT7 which comes in eight colorways, including glow in the dark and space-inspired versions.
WME Cancels Oscar Festivities, Gives $1M to Ukraine
The Oscars are just over two weeks away. As insiders secure the final details on their fly fits for Hollywood’s biggest night, one talent agency is doing things differently this year. WME announced this week that it is foregoing its annual afterparty and will donate $1 million to UNICEF, earmarked for support of families in Ukraine. WME will host smaller gatherings to honor its nominees, but they will be pared down in comparison to the usual fanfare.
Peloton Eyes Rebound with Diversified Pricing Model
Over the last two years, Peloton has experienced remarkable highs and, more recently, devastating lows. In an effort to get back on track, the at-home fitness company announced that it will test out new pricing plans to attempt to attract new users. The company plans to unroll this plan in select markets including Texas and Florida. Last month, the company’s founding CEO John Foley stepped down and the company cut 2,800 jobs.
Superstars Go Back to College with NFTU
It wasn’t that long ago that Ja Morant was the big man on campus at Murray State. Now, thanks to a new endeavor by Recur, digital collectors can get an NFT commemorating Morant’s standout collegiate career. The brand has teamed up with current and past players, including Morant, Carmelo Anthony, and more, to launch NFTU. The first collection drops on Mar 14 and offers four tiers ranging from $10-500 to get into the game.
OneOf Set to Produce The Notorious B.I.G. NFTs
Wednesday marked the 25th anniversary of the drive-by shooting that tragically stole Biggie’s life at just 24-years-old. OneOf — the same Web3 platform that partnered with the Grammys for the next three years — announced the forthcoming “The Notorious B.I.G. NFT Collection” to honor the Brooklyn MC. The release date has not yet been set. A percentage of the proceeds will benefit The Christopher Wallace Memorial Foundation, founded by his mother, Voletta Wallace.