Antetokounmpo sues artist over alleged ‘Greek Freak’ knockoffs

·

Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, the 2019 National Basketball Association most valuable player, sued a Pennsylvania man on Monday for allegedly selling “Greek Freak” t-shirts and other clothing without permission.

Antetokounmpo accused Jinder Bhogal, who sells clothing inspired by NBA players on his website, of trying to piggyback off his “Greek Freak” trademark, which was registered last year, and profit from the Bucks star’s success.

According to the complaint filed in Manhattan federal court, Bhogal acted in bad faith “with the purpose of confusing and misleading consumers into believing that they are purchasing products associated with or endorsed by Giannis Antetokounmpo, one of the most successful and popular NBA players.”

Antetokounmpo also said Bhogal did not respond to his May 3 “cease and desist” letter to stop selling infringing products, including hoodies.

A call to a number listed for Bhogal in Reading, Pennsylvania seeking comment was not immediately returned.

Antetokounmpo is seeking at least $2 million of damages, including unspecified compensatory and punitive damages, and an injunction against further infringements.

The lawsuit included an illustration in which Bhogal allegedly put Antetokounmpo’s face on a body with antlers, and offered Bucks fans 10% off for deciding to “get your Greek Freak tee for the next round of the playoffs!”

Bhogal’s website also offers clothing featuring depictions of former NBA MVPs Stephen Curry and James Harden.
Antetokounmpo, 24, was born in Greece to Nigerian immigrants and raised there. He has played for the Bucks since 2013, and averaged 27.7 points, 12.5 rebounds and 5.9 assists per game in the 2018-19 season. The case is Antetokounmpo v. Bhogal, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, No. 19-06304.

Source: Reuters

Advertisement

Source:Reuters

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Thanasi Kokkinakis upset gives Australia shock Davis Cup win over US

A nail-biting win for Thanasi Kokkinakis has led Australia into the semi-finals of the Davis Cup in Spain.

Capturing legacies: The proika exhibition’s emotional tribute to Greek migrants

On Wednesday, November 20, the proika exhibition opened to a crowd of eager guests at the Thematikos x MBO Tailors creative space.

Golden Era Gala: A reunion with a cause to combat brain and rare cancers

White Pearl Foundation and Cquence Foundation have announced the Golden Era Gala to be held at the Hyatt Regency Sydney on November 30.

Melbourne scientist Steven Petratos offers hope to thousands with multiple sclerosis

The image of Steven Petratos’ grandfather, confined to a chair with trembling hands, left an indelible mark on his childhood.

Former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett to launch book on Nick Thyssen’s legacy

Former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett, supporter of Greece and its diaspora, will launch the biography of Nick Thyssen (Nikos Theodosiadis).

You May Also Like

Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia responds to coronavirus epidemic

Archbishop Makarios released a statement on Monday regarding the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia's response to the recent coronavirus epidemic and the steps they are taking to ensure peoples safety.

Almost one month later, Melbourne celebrates Greek National Day with parade

Thousands of Greek Australians gathered at South Melbourne FC's Lakeside Stadium in Albert Park for the annual Greek Independence Day parade.

Michael Christodoulou AM applauds community language school funding boost

CEO of the NSW Federation of Community Language Schools, Michael Christodoulou AM, has applauded the NSW Government's decision to allocate $10.18 million to the schools and boost the rich tapestry of multiculturalism in NSW.