Black Sports (Prior revision dated Saturday 16 September 2023 03:13:39 -- @176)

Black Sports was an American monthly sports magazine that was first launched in April 1971 in New York City. The publication held the distinction of being the first major sports magazine that specifically targeted African Americans. Allan P. Barron, who conceived the idea for the magazine, served as its president and editor. He collaborated with William L. Doneghy, who assumed the roles of vice-president and controller. In its initial year, the role of editor was taken up by Bryant Gumbel, who departed from the magazine the following year.

The magazine's debut issue, Black Sports Magazine, Vol. 1 No. 1, prominently featured Oscar Robertson and Lew Alcindor (later known as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar), who were both donning Milwaukee Bucks jerseys on the cover. The cover was set against a white background and included text in red and black ink. The text contained headlines and teases of articles inside the issue such as "Oscar and Lew / NBA's Winning Buck$ / Matt Snell's / Recovery Toss-up / Mississippi Sports / Revolution / Willye White's / Fifth Team / NFL's Buddy Young / Rappin' with John Carlos & Willie Davis / SPECIAL: Johnny Sample's Confessions of a Dirty Ballplayer / EXCLUSIVE: Ron Johnson's Own Story." The issue ran for 64 pages and was populated with numerous photographs and illustrations.

Despite its unique position in the market, Black Sports struggled to achieve a high circulation and was only moderately successful. The final issue of the magazine was published in June 1978, marking the end of its seven-year run. The publication is remembered for its pioneering role in creating a platform for sports journalism dedicated to African American athletes and audiences.{{Categories}}