I was instructed to write about intellectual property issues within my business plan, and to identify recent controversy with copyright, trademark, or patent laws in sports. The information discussed in this blog may not directly relate to the intellectual properties listed, but they indirectly relate to other legalities JG must be knowledgeable of. Much like Nike, JG has to be mindful of all potential infractions copyright, trademark, and patent laws. NIKE has done a good job in securing contracts and staying clear of sanctions. The conglomerate as a whole has is steady growing, and maybe on the brink of cornering the market. However, JG cannot duplicate mistakes made by NIKE. NIKE has thrown its weight around for quite a while, and they have endured an insurmountable amount scrutiny.
Recently, reports surfaced about Oregon and Phil Knight giving improper benefits to recruits and players. Knight an Oregon alumnist, and co-founder of NIKE is being securitized for allegedly enticing recruits with expensive gift. The NCAA alleges Phil Knight approved his production team to manufacture a special pair of Air Jordan’s worth $250,000 for signing a letter of intent. Wow! $250,000 for a pair of Jordan’s that Michael Jordan himself may not have, that’s leverage.
Blue Chip running backs LeMicheal James, and Lache Seastrunk from Texas are at the forefront of this matter, because they are the two parties involved. According to Kelley:
Texas "scout" Willie Lyles, who was paid $25,000 by Oregon for his alleged skills in talent assessment, included in his report to Oregon head coach Chip Kelly the inside insight that Seastrunk loved Air Jordan’s. In a tweet sent July 5, Lyles clarified his quote in a column written by The Oregonian's John Canzano. "The shoes were on display and I never said they were given to Lache (Seastrunk)."
Lyles the CEO of Complete Scouting Services a Texas based recruiting company have been linked to a host of NCAA investigations over the years. Lyles and Oregon bickered about the matter for a few days, and were able to agree to disagree. If the NCAA can find substantive evidence that Knight and his conglomerate committed foul play, the sanction issued by the NCAA could be very harsh. Those critical of Knights influence at UO call him the puppet master, because he’s the driving the driving force behind athletic program. Knight has pumped well over $100 million into UO’s athletic program. Knight has improved Autzen Stadium, built a Matthew Knight Arena for the men and women’s Basketball teams. Knight is not your average booster. He gets private tutorials from both offensive and defensive coaches; he has his own headset and generally calls one play a game, and he is kept abreast of all singings.
According to Sports Illustrated Michael Rosenberg; The school's uniforms, more than any other team's, are a billboard for his company, Nike. There is a sense that every new building and every important hire needs Knight's stamp of approval. Unfortunately, Knight and his conglomerate could be banned from UO, or have limited access to UO athletic program if allegations are true. If Knight cannot directly influence the athletic program what will come of the Ducks?
Reference:
Gilbert, J. (03/03/2011) Oregon Football Recruiting Scandal: Is Pac-12 the
Rosenberg, M. (2011) Nike’s Phil Knight has branded Oregon into a national
