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Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James reacts during a game, as he faces a trademark setback ahead of the Lakers’ playoff series.

Bronny James encountered a setback off the court just days before the Los Angeles Lakers open their first-round playoff series, adding to the uncertainty surrounding his role entering the postseason.

According to ESPN, a trademark application filed by Nike for James’ “B9” logo has been refused by the United States Patent and Trademark Office, citing a “likelihood of confusion” with an existing mark owned by Back9 Golf Apparel.

The decision comes as the Lakers prepare to face the Houston Rockets, with James’ playing time already expected to be limited.

Bronny James ‘B9’ Trademark Denied by USPTO

Nike filed for the “B9” logo in February, with the mark appearing on shoes worn by James during the season. The design features a stylized lowercase “b” alongside the number “9.”

However, USPTO examining attorney P. Scott Craven ruled the mark was too similar to Back9 Golf Apparel’s “B9” logo, which has been in use since 2020 and registered in 2022.

“The marks are similar in appearance, sound and commercial impression,” Craven wrote in the refusal. “In addition, the marks are essentially phonetic equivalents.”

Trademark attorney Josh Gerben told ESPN the ruling was not unexpected.

“This is not out of left field,” Gerben said. “Technically, this is a sound refusal by the government.”

Nike has three months to respond to the refusal or appeal. One potential path forward would be securing a consent agreement with Back9, which could allow both parties to use similar marks.

James has three other trademarks already approved, including “Bronny,” “Bronald” and “B J Jr.”

Bronny James’ Playoff Role With Lakers Remains Unclear

While the trademark news unfolds, James’ role on the court remains uncertain heading into the playoffs.

Lakers coach JJ Redick recently outlined a tighter rotation approach and did not specifically include James among the guards expected to handle consistent minutes.

“I think just really simplify things,” Redick said after the Lakers beat the Phoenix Suns last week. “Him, Luke, whoever that third guard is off the bench, and LeBron all have to share in that responsibility.”

Redick referenced Marcus Smart and Luke Kennard when discussing ball-handling duties with LeBron James, but did not mention Bronny by name, a notable omission as the Lakers prepare for postseason play.

Bronny James’ Recent Performance and Role Entering Year 2

Now in his second NBA season, James showed incremental progress late in the regular season.

Over his final nine games, he averaged 5.0 points, 1.0 assist and 0.8 rebounds in 15.0 minutes per game, including an 11-point performance in a win over the Utah Jazz.

Despite the improvement, postseason rotations typically shrink, with teams relying on experienced contributors in high-pressure situations.

Veteran options such as Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt and Jake LaRavia are expected to receive priority minutes, while Marcus Smart and Luke Kennard are positioned to handle key backcourt roles.

Even with injuries to Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, James is not currently projected to be part of the Lakers’ primary playoff rotation.

Lakers Prioritize Experience Ahead of Rockets Series

The Lakers will open their first-round series at Crypto.com Arena on Saturday, with LeBron James expected to shoulder a significant offensive workload.

Playoff basketball often demands shorter rotations and increased reliance on proven contributors, limiting opportunities for younger players still establishing their roles.

For Bronny James, the timing of the trademark setback and the uncertainty surrounding his minutes create a challenging backdrop as the Lakers begin their postseason push.

His development remains a long-term priority for the organization, but his immediate impact in the playoffs is expected to be limited unless circumstances shift.