In Memphis, Jason Smith noted the “classic white 1972-73 throwback uniforms” the Univ. of Memphis men’s basketball team wore in its season-opening win over Belmont Tuesday were “part of the school's centennial celebration.” Coach Josh Pastner said, "I hope Nike has plans to sell them. I've had people from all over -- not only in Memphis -- but all over the country going, 'Coach, those were the hottest things. How do we get a jersey like that? We'll buy it. Whatever it costs. We'll buy it.'" Pastner added, "My recommendation is for everyone, anyone who wants one, send every e-mail you can to the university and whoever is in charge in terms of that area of sports licensing. Or if you want to send it to (Memphis president) Dr. (Shirley) Raines' office” (COMMERCIALAPPEAL.com, 11/17).
NEW GEAR: In Portland, Allan Brettman reports Nike Thursday “unveiled the SPARQ Vapor Strobe Eyewear -- a pair of wraparound sunglasses that re-create the effect of an intense strobe light show at a rock concert.” Nike officials said that the effect is “intended to help athletes better interpret information on a playing field and the glasses … have been part of Oregon quarterbacks on-field practice arsenal for about four years.” The company also “introduced a series of video vision tests that could be characterized as elaborate, high-tech versions of whack-a-mole” (Portland OREGONIAN, 11/18).
TEEING IT UP: Golfer Ryann O’Toole has signed an endorsement deal with Kentwool performance golf socks and will wear the gear during LPGA play. In addition, O’Toole will wear the company’s logo on her shirt collar, be featured in Kentwool marketing and its newly relaunched website (Kentwool).
