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Welcome to the newly updated edition of The Baseline!

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Let’s get right into it…

MEME BLUEPRINT

This is the fastest-growing content strategy in sports right now, but most brands overthink it or don’t actually use it.

They assume social growth means more cameras and non-stop video production.

However, today’s most shared content online isn’t just videos; it’s actually memes.

That’s why more and more brands in sports are adding memes to their overall content strategy.

Meme marketing allows teams to move at the speed of the internet.

Just look at the Atlanta Hawks on TikTok:

Their trending meme content has made them one of the most followed NBA teams on the platform.

They never repurpose content from Instagram or anywhere else, which creates a unique multi-platform content approach.

Their meme content is native to TikTok, mixing up videos and trends that audiences are already engaging with.

This entertains their audience while connecting with younger fans to grow the team’s fanbase.

So, this is your Meme Marketing blueprint for 2026:

More memes bring more shares, which creates more human relatability for your brand.

This is also now easier than ever with platforms like Memelord Technologies.

Their tools give brands access to the largest meme library, trending meme alerts, and even built-in AI editing features.

When memes are the most shareable language on the internet, your brand’s competitive advantage can be a meme that joins the conversation faster than everyone else.

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FREE THROWS

Sharing the tools and resources that I’m using this week:

🤣 Memelord Technologies - The Canva of Memes that helps founders and marketers create meme marketing quicker, funnier, and in line with current internet trends.

🔮 2026 Trend Report - The team at AIR gathered a group of your favorite marketing creators to compile this 2026 trend report on what's next in marketing and creativity.

🔟 The 10 Things Newsletter - A daily roundup of the top news and insights for marketers, operators and founders.

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POST-GAME

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- Jeff Chen | 🏀💡👨🏻‍💻