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Bronny James’ new ‘B9’ trademark application is denied

Originally posted on Ball Exclusives | Last updated Apr 14, 2026 7:55 PM ET

In February, Bronny James and Nike applied for a trademark on James’ “B9” logo that was seen in images shared by Nike to social media. That trademark application has been denied after examining attorney P. Scott Craven determined that it bore too much resemblance to a “B9” logo belonging to Back9 Golf Apparel. ESPN’s Mike Rothstein was the first to report the news.

The trademark application for Bronny James’ “B9” logo under Nike has been denied, per @mikerothstein

“The USPTO turned down the application because examining attorney P. Scott Craven deemed the logo too similar to the ‘B9’ logo created by Back9 Golf Apparel, a company out of… pic.twitter.com/HcGSTMKKKe

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) April 14, 2026

Back9 already registered a trademark on that logo in 2022. It features a black background with “B9” in an overlapping font.

James is a second-year player for the Los Angeles Lakers and the son of NBA legend and current Lakers LeBron James.

Nike can now appeal the ruling within the next three months. Alternatively, Nike can contact Back9 and request approval to use the logo. If that request is granted, the trademark maybe approved.

James spent much of his first two seasons in the G-League, but has stepped up for the Lakers as of late while Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves recover from injuries.

James Parker contributed to this story.

This article first appeared on Ball Exclusives and was syndicated with permission.

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