WHERE DO I GET A SPIDER MAN BASKETBALL?

     Marvel Comics Group is extending its comic book characters
into sporting goods, apparel and lifestyle merchandise through
licensing deals with companies such as Wilson Sporting Goods and
Mattel, according to BRANDWEEK.  The move comes as Marvel tries
to build a more "cohesive brand presence" and better "integration
of cross-promotional deals."  Marvel desires a more strategic
approach to bringing its franchise characters to mass audiences
via TV, movies, theme parks and retail outlets.  The "formula"
mixes entertainment properties, consumer products and promotions
in which third-party marketers provide media dollars to drive in-
store purchase decisions.  Wilson is "aboard" for their tennis
rackets.  The Mattel deal covers boogie boards and other swim
accessories, but is not likely to extend to other toys, as Marvel
owns Toy Biz and Fleer trading cards.  Marvel has also held talks
with Frito-Lay and Pepsi (Karen Benezra, BRANDWEEK, 4/15 issue).