MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER IN MIDST OF SUPPLIER QUANDARY

     Nike, Reebok, Puma and Adidas have all "anted up" about
$500,000 a year in their roles as "official supplier" for MLS
franchises that begin play next month.  But each company is
"rapidly learning" that the designation does not prevent
approaching individual players for six-figure endorsement deals,
according to BRANDWEEK.  Reebok has signed a footwear deal with
Clash player Eric Wynalda -- while the Clash have signed with
Nike.  Adidas has signed the Revolution's Alexi Lalas -- a
Reebok-endorsed team.  Nike's pre-existing deal with Marcelo
Balboa will continue even though he plays for the Puma-supplied
Rapids (Steve Gelsi, BRANDWEEK, 3/18).