The "longstanding relationship between" Wayne Gretzky and Upper Deck (UD) "may be coming to an end," according to BECKETT INSIDER, and the "reason for the split, according to industry sources, might be Gretzky's displeasure" with the company's "usage of his name and likeness on a greater number of products than he anticipated." UD Senior Manager of Corporate Communications Mary Mancera "conceded the relationship between" Gretzky and Upper Deck Authenticated (UDA), UD's memorabilia arm, is "somewhat ... tenuous." Mancera: "Currently, UD is still discussing the direction the memorabilia part of its relationship will take with Gretzky." Gretzky's representatives "did not return calls for comment" (BECKETT INSIDER, 2/23 issue). JACK IN THE BOX: In Miami, Bob Diamond reports that UDA signed Jack Nicklaus as a spokesperson and "to autograph limited-edition memorabilia." Nicklaus becomes UDA's "second big-name athlete" signed this month, as Lakers G Kobe Bryant inked a multiyear deal earlier this month (see THE DAILY, 2/10). Nicklaus' UDA memorabilia available this spring will include photos, golf clubs and hand-painted items, while a "commemorative tribute figurine is due out later this year" (MIAMI HERALD, 2/25).
