Nike’s Trademark for the Bronny James B9 Logo Denied

Sometimes, it’s best to be proactive. Well, not sometimes, all the time, because mistakes or assuming things will work out can be costly. In sneakers, many brands will apply for trademarks for logos while actively creating and releasing specific shoes, one of the most recent cases being with LeBron James’ son, Bronny, and his Nike logo.

The Swoosh dropped a Bronny PE colorway of the Nike LeBron Witness IX featuring a personalized “B9” design in gothic font and teased another sail colorway of the same model for Bronny. But Nike may have to scrap the logo and future releases with the design as the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) denied its use of the logo.

Last week, news emerged that the USPTO examined the “B9” logo made by Nike, a stylized gothic B with Bronny’s number 9 in the center, and denied the trademark due to the likelihood that it would cause confusion. The other B9 the USPTO is talking about? Back9, a golf apparel company from Texas. They use a “B9” logo, though its design is completely different.

Back9 has had the trademark on its logo for nearly three years, and Nike only filed its patent for the Bronny logo in February. Nike can try to appeal to the USPTO by “submitting evidence and arguments in support of registration.” Will Nike do this? That we’re not sure of, but it’s possible considering they have already released a product with the “B9” logo and have more planned.

As we get more info on Bronny’s signature logo with Nike, and whether or not The Swoosh will have to go back to the drawing board, we’ll keep you updated. For the latest happenings in the sneaker world, download the Sole Retriever mobile app.

Nicholas Vlahos

Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy attending concerts, catching the latest movies, and trying new food. For tips, reviews, or any shoes in a size 13, email nick@soleretriever.com