On July 17, 2019, Nike, Inc (Nike), filed a countersuit against former Toronto Raptor Kawhi Leonard over his use of the "Klaw" logo. Nike’s countersuit comes approximately one month after Leonard filed his own lawsuit against Nike claiming that he designed the “Klaw” logo as previously reported by the E-TIPS® Newsletter here.
Nike’s countersuit against Leonard is the latest development in an ongoing legal battle with the former Toronto Raptor over the ownership of the “Klaw” logo. Nike alleges that Leonard, in his lawsuit, is trying to take credit for the work of its designers. Nike asserts that while Leonard provided a drawing as an initial concept, it was Nike’s team who created the design. Nike’s countersuit reportedly includes a quote from Leonard giving Nike’s Jordan Brand “all the credit” for creating the design.
Leonard endorsed Nike from 2011 to 2018 and reportedly signed a contract acknowledging Nike’s copyright in the logo. Nike is seeking a declaration of its ownership of the logo, an injunction preventing Leonard from using the logo, damages and attorney fees.
Summary By: Jae S. Morris
E-TIPS® ISSUE
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