In Portland, Allan Brettman noted the main character in the newly released movie "Creed," played by actor Michael B. Jordan, "wears Nike and Jordan Brand apparel throughout the flick." Nike and its Jordan Brand "appear to have taken the tie-in to a different level with the partnership with 'Creed'" than sports apparel brands have traditionally. Nike announced last Tuesday that "'Creed'-themed training sessions had been offered" in N.Y., L.A. and Chicago, with the actor leading the sessions (OREGONLIVE.com, 11/25).
CONFLICT OF INTEREST: The AP's John Leicester noted IAAF President Sebastian Coe has "given up his role" as a special adviser to Nike. That relationship was "long-standing, dating back to his years as a star middle-distance runner, and it was lucrative." But critics said that it created a "conflict of interest" for Coe (AP, 11/26).
MAGIC ELIXIR: The COLUMBUS DISPATCH reported former NFLer and Ohio State QB Troy Smith has "signed on to endorse Life Support, a hangover-relief beverage with local ties." The company said that Smith will "make appearances in Ohio and will be part of radio advertising for the brand for the rest of the year." Bengals LB and former Ohio State player A.J. Hawk is also an investor in Life Support (COLUMBUS DISPATCH, 11/30).
