Nike "joins a growing list of big companies that
contend their millions of dollars in Y2K expenses are
covered by insurance policies protecting damage to computer
systems," according to Steve Woodward of the Portland
OREGONIAN. Nike has spent "nearly" $100M on its Y2K
"problems," and has "sued" NY-based American Home Assurance
and RI-based Factory Mutual Insurance last month, "seeking
reimbursement for its Y2K expenses." Last week, the case
moved to U.S. District Court in Portland "at the request of
the insurers" (Portland OREGONIAN, 12/11).
NIKE'S NEW TROPHY: In Portland, Don Hortsch reported
that the 18,000 square foot Nike Factory Outlet in Portland
opened on Saturday, after its "invitation-only ceremonial
opening" last Wednesday "brought in" Trail Blazers F Scottie
Pippen and G Damon Stoudamire. Hortsch called the facility
a "striking new edifice" (Portland OREGONIAN, 12/10).
A SITTING SUN: In Charlotte, Rick Bonnell wrote that
Nike "can't be too thrilled" with Suns G Penny Hardaway,
after he "blamed a case of plantar fasciaitis" on his Air
Jordans. Bonnell: "Penny says the shoe's heel is too thin
for his precious feet" (CHARLOTTE OBSERVER, 12/12). The
SPORTSBUSINESS JOURNAL's Dan Weil notes that Hardaway is
paid $350,000 a year by Nike (SPORTSBUSINESS JOURNAL, 12/13
issue). For news of Nike's Olympic deal, see (#26).
