NIKE LOOKS TO TAKE THE WORM OFF ITS ENDORSEMENT HOOK

          Nike and Dennis Rodman "apparently are parting
     company," as a highly-placed Nike official says that the
     company has "little interest" in extending its relationship
     with him, according to Jeff Manning in the Portland
     OREGONIAN.  On the record, Nike only says the Rodman's
     contract has expired, but a Nike source said that Rodman
     "crossed the thin line" beyond acceptable notoriety and
     added Rodman no longer "sets the kind of example" Nike is
     comfortable with.  Manning notes Rodman may "be chafing" to
     play a bigger role in Nike's marketing.  According to Reebok
     Basketball Marketing Official Howard Smith, "We hear he's as
     unhappy with Nike as the company is with him."  Rodman is
     reportedly talking with Converse and eyewear maker Oakley
     about "alternative deals" (Portland OREGONIAN, 1/10).