Toronto Raptors forward Kawhi Leonard has filed a lawsuit against Nike after the company allegedly used a logo the ball player created.
On Monday, Leonard filed a nine-page document to sue the sports apparel giant, claiming the rights of a logo Leonard designed in filing an application for copyright protection. Leonard says the application was filed before the U.S. District Court in Southern California and alleges that Nike is committing fraud. The 27-year-old is seeking control over the use of the logo for any purpose in the future.
Leonard’s endorsement deal with Nike expired on Sept. 20, 2018, according to the lawsuit. Since then, he’s moved on to a new deal with New Balance. The suit says “the drawing Leonard authored was an extension and continuation of drawings he had been creating since early in his college career.” The logo depicts an outline of Leonard’s hand with the initials KL and the number 2 on the inside.
Leonard claims he gave Nike permission to use the logo “on certain merchandise” while Leonard continued to use it “on non-Nike goods.” Leonard claims the company has refused to allow him to use the logo and he wants to regain control of it for use “on clothing lines, footwear and on other products.”
Nike has yet to respond to the lawsuit.
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