Las Vegas Athletics Trademark Denied: What’s Next for the Team?

The Oakland Athletics’ journey towards relocation to Las Vegas is facing a significant hurdle as the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has rejected their requests to trademark “Las Vegas Athletics” and “Vegas Athletics.” As the team prepares for their 2028 move, understanding the implications of this decision is crucial.

Trademark Denial Explained

The USPTO’s denial rests on a few key points:

• Generic Terms: The term “Athletics” is considered too generic, associated broadly with sports and physical activities. The trademark office highlighted that such general terminology does not qualify for special protection.

• Lack of Acquired Distinctiveness: Despite the Athletics’ history dating back to 1901, the USPTO stated that prior registrations do not support the team’s claim for a unique trademark. Their reasoning reflects a belief that the name lacks “acquired distinctiveness.”

What the USPTO Said

In their filing, the USPTO noted:

“ATHLETICS means activities such as sports, exercises, and games that require physical skill and stamina… prior registration does not support applicant’s claim of acquired distinctiveness.”

This statement underlines the challenges the team faces in solidifying its brand ahead of the anticipated relocation.

Transitioning to Las Vegas

The Athletics recently ended their tenure at Oakland Coliseum and are preparing for their future in Las Vegas. Here’s a quick overview of the current situation:

• Stadium Development: Ground has been broken on a new $1.75 billion stadium in Las Vegas, exciting many fans eager for the franchise’s new chapter.

• Interim Venue: Currently, the team is playing at Sutter Health Park in Sacramento, home to the Triple-A River Cats. This temporary arrangement has garnered mixed reviews from players and fans alike.

Players Voice Concerns

Star pitcher Luis Severino, who signed a substantial $67 million deal last offseason, expressed dissatisfaction with the current playing environment:

“It feels like a spring training kind of game every time I pitch… it’s not been great for us.”

Moves in the Offseason

Despite facing challenges, the Athletics are making long-term investments in their roster:

• Recent Contracts:
  • Brent Rooker extended for $60 million.
  • Lawrence Butler signed for $66.5 million.
  • Tyler Soderstrom secured a franchise-record $86 million deal.
  • Jeff McNeil traded from the Mets.

These decisions reflect confidence in the team’s young core, which includes Nick Kurtz, the 2025 American League Rookie of the Year.

Future Trademark Strategy

Given the USPTO’s recent decision, the Athletics are expected to reapply for the trademark in the future. The timing of the reapplication may hinge on their official relocation to Las Vegas, potentially strengthening their case.

Key Takeaways

• Trademark Challenges: The team faces substantial hurdles in branding as they transition.
• Player Investments: The franchise is committed to building a competitive team, evident in recent contracts.
• Future Prospects: The Athletics plan to continue their quest for trademark protection, with a better chance after physically moving to Las Vegas.

For more on trademark issues facing sports teams, visit the USPTO’s website or consult industry experts. The future remains bright for the Athletics as they look ahead to their new home, despite the current challenges.