Left: Jacobus Rentmeester's original photograph for Life Magazine in 1984. Upper right: Nike's promotional photo for Air Jordan, taken in 1985. Bottom right: Nike's famous "Jumpman" logo, which was adapted from Nike's photo of Jordan and introduced in 1987. After spending years in lower federal courts, the Supreme Court has denied certiorari in a copyright... Continue Reading →
A recent petition is calling for Gillette to end its naming rights sponsorship of the Patriots’ stadium in response to Robert Kraft’s criminal charges. These developments could lead to morals clauses regarding team owner conduct being standard in stadium naming rights agreements. The sports world was rocked last month when New England Patriots owner Robert... Continue Reading →
The Dallas Mavericks are seeking a trademark in “El Matador.” But should “El Matador” himself grant his team permission to seek the trademark? Last week, I discussed the problems that arose from “FitzMagic,” a nickname that Miami Dolphins safety Minkah Fitzpatrick tried to register as a trademark. His application was ultimately denied by the U.S.... Continue Reading →
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office refused to grant a trademark in “FitzMagic” to Minkah Fitzpatrick, as the term is more closely related to Ryan Fitzpatrick. Miami Dolphins safety Minkah Fitzpatrick filed a trademark application for the nickname “FitzMagic” back in September 2018. Minkah sought to trademark “FitzMagic” since it has been his nickname since... Continue Reading →
Maryland is taking steps to legalize prize-based esports tournaments. As professional video game tournaments (esports) continue to rise in popularity, the law needs to catch up to accommodate this new form of entertainment. Endorsements, intellectual property, contracts, and esports betting are among the top concerns facing esports players today. Yet, there are still states where... Continue Reading →
Pennsylvania State University could be making life harder for businesses nationwide that use the words “Happy Valley.” On December 4th, 2018, Penn State filed a trademark application for “Happy Valley.” Why, you may ask? “Happy Valley” is generally used by locals to describe the area where Penn State is located. In seeking this trademark, Penn... Continue Reading →
When questioned regarding his communication with the NBA, and their decision to fine him each game he does not cover his “SUPREME” tattoo, the Cleveland Cavaliers guard responded “I don’t talk to the police.” J.R. Smith has had his share of run-ins with NBA league officials for his behavior both on and... Continue Reading →
The Vegas Golden Knights are having a historic season, three games from winning the Stanley Cup in just their first year in the NHL. The franchise appears bound for great things, and the story of the Golden Knights is an example of some of the best of sport, bringing the people of Las Vegas together... Continue Reading →