In Denver, Nick Kosmider writes Nike "won’t just quietly take over the uniforms when their new eight-year deal as the NBA’s apparel provider begins next season." There "will be a splash" when Nike "assumes control next year and a marketing blitz to follow." One thing NBA fans probably "can count on" as Nike takes over is that sleeved jerseys are "likely gone" (DENVER POST, 3/15).
NEXT ON THE TEE: Houston Golf Association President & CEO Steve Timms said the organization has had "many conversations" with companies about replacing Shell as title sponsor for the PGA Tour's Shell Houston Open. In Houston, Dale Robertson noted Shell is the "third longest-running sponsor" on the PGA Tour. This is the last year Shell will sponsor the event, and the HGA "isn't yet close" to locking up a replacement sponsor (HOUSTON CHRONICLE, 3/14).
PRETTY SIMILAR? In Baltimore, Lorraine Mirabella notes Under Armour is "launching #ImPretty, a digital marketing campaign focusing on the impact of women through their careers and craft." But the campaign "drew criticism" for what several people posting on Instagram "viewed as its similarity to the Santa Monica-based Too Pretty Brand of women's t-shirts, leggings and other apparel" (Baltimore SUN, 3/15).
