Is there any way I can use NBA/NCAA logos on my crafts without trademark issues?

Business 4 views 4 answers
I make less than 100 items per year. I have heard that if I change the logo 20% it is legal. Is this true?

Attorney Answers

4
Michael Doland ·
No, no. If you search this and related of questions on , you will find hundreds of identical answers. You may not have know this search tool existed on .
0 upvotes
Philip Marcus ·
What you heard is pure street law, and is not true. Without a license you cannot use the logos, which tend to make your customers think you are somehow affiliated with these teams. You would need to make enough change that the logos are not recognizable to most people.
0 upvotes
Pamela KoslynBusiness AttorneyLos Angeles, CA ·
Nope, you heard wrong. There's no magic % you have to change before something becomesnot an infirngement, and anyway, how would you know what a 20% change is? The real rule is that if your products confuse consumers who buy your crafts thinking they're official NBA/NCAA products, then they're infringing. And no, "I'm only infringing a little" is no excuse, although it could affect the damages you'd be sued for.
0 upvotes
Bruce Burdick ·
Q: "Is there any way I can use NBA/NCAA logos on my crafts without trademark issues? Answer: Yes, get a license from the NBA or NCAA. You will not likely be successful. Both have extensive licensing programs with many exclusive licensees. Q: "I make less than 100 items per year." Answer: Even 1 item would be illegal. How many is just relevant to the damages you would have to pay if sued. You would also pay thousands of dollars to cover their legal fees in suing you and potentially three times your profits and get an injunction against you if sued. Does that sound like a risk that is worthwhile? Q: "I have heard that if I change the logo 20% it is legal. Is this true?" Answer: You need to stop relying on garbagemen for your legal advice and get an attorney so you don't get garbage for advice.
0 upvotes

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