Lebron Jordan, Not Like Mike; Nike Lawsuit
When you mention Lebron or Jordan, there is not much confusion over who or what you are talking about. The greatest player ever to step on the court and what many have said would be his successor may be stepping into the court room along with the most recognizable athletic apparel company in the world Nike.
The shoe maker and the two NBA greats are being sued by Lebron Jordan, Inc.. Lebron Jordan, Inc. is a Brooklyn based company that customizes sneakers and apparel. CEO Aaron Fraser claims the company is not named after or associated with the two NBA legends Lebron James or Michael Jordan. Fraser insists the company was named after his godsons. Initially, Nike, Michael Jordan, and Lebron James tagged Lebron Jordan, Inc. with cease and desist orders, but now it looks like the tables have turned. The negative publicity that has been associated to the company because of the orders has triggered a lawsuit in the U.S. District of Eastern New York. Not only has Lebron Jordan, Inc. filed the lawsuit, but it is suing Jordan, James, Nike, Converse, Live Nation, Inc. and Jump D.C., Inc. (Jordan reps) for $150,000,000 each.
This should be an interesting case. Lebron Jordan, Inc. argues Nike has no right to trademark either of the words that form it's company name and the negative press surrounding the cease and desist orders has prevented the company from millions of dollars in sales. Nike, Jordan, Lebron and the rest of the defendants have the obvious argument that the company is using their names and brand to sell their products.
For a story that clearly looked like a slam dunk for Nike, Jordan, and James, it may turn into a publicity magnet that attracts customers to Lebron Jordan, Inc. And if this pans out for Lebron Jordan, Inc., don't be surprised to see Peyton Montana, Inc. coming soon.
My name is Christopher Fusco. I am the managing partner of Callahan & Fusco, LLC with offices in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.