Marketplace Round-Up

PGA Tour member John Daly no longer has endorsements with Hooters, a sponsor since '05, and 84 Lumber, with whom he signed in '02. During a press conference yesterday at the Northern Trust Open, Daly said, “I've lost pretty much Hooters and 84 Lumber, and I've got small deals with TaylorMade, but not like what I had.” He added, “I would love to be with Hooters. I think it's a great fit. Still want to be with 84 Lumber, but the market is so bad for home builders" (THE DAILY).

ANOTHER KIND OF DUNK CONTEST: Suns C Shaquille O'Neal and his Dunkman brand have partnered with Slam Magazine on "Dunktruck," a freestyle dunk event that debuts today during NBA All-Star weekend. Winners of five regional events will travel to Miami, where the winner will receive a $10,000 prize and will be featured in an upcoming ad for the brand in Slam (Dunkman). O'Neal has offered his Dunkman low-cost line of athletic shoes since '96, and he said, "I was the first big name to say, ‘You know what, I’m not going to charge children $150, $200 for a pair of shoes. I’m going to give them some nice quality shoes for a great affordable price’" (CNBC, 2/15).

FOR A GOOD CAUSE: The Kay Yow/WBCA Cancer Foundation, in partnership with The V Foundation for Cancer Research, has announced The Hartford as its first founding partner (WBCA).

Dunkman To Debut "Dunktruck" Today In New Orleans