Kawhi Leonard Suing Nike Over Ownership of His Logo
By Jerry Trotta
Kawhi Leonard might be in the midst of the trying to depose one of basketball's greatest dynasties, but that won't stop the three-time All-Star from defending his off-the-court image.
The Toronto Raptors winger recently signed an endorsement deal with New Balance after he postponed extension talks with Nike. Fast forward a few months, however, and the reason as to why Leonard wouldn't agree to keep representing the renown brand has surfaced.
Per Matthew Kish of the Portland Business Journal, Kawhi is suing the corporation, claiming that Nike copyrighted his "Claw" logo that he designed without his consent.
The logo Leonard is suing Nike over is his a famous “Klaw” logo. Technically, the Jordan Brand owns part of the copyright since it was created when the two-time Defensive Player of the Year was still signed to the trademark brand, but Leonard now wants full control over the personal logo.
Kish also writes that the Kawhi lawsuit includes the claim that the logo is an expansion of his drawing that he made and gave Nike permission to use on "certain merchandise." Additionally, the San Diego State product's representatives state that Nike filed for copyright without his permission.
Nike has elected to remain quiet on the matter until they gather all relevant details but stay tuned for updates as their response could determine how cluttered and messy this lawsuit could become.