ESPN, Michigan State Mend Fence With North Texas Over Misused Mascot
It's Michigan versus Michigan State on Saturday night.
The Wolverines versus the Mean Green.
At least, that's what ESPN suggested in a recent promo for the game, which will air on its parent network ABC. One little problem -- the Mean Green is the trademarked mascot of the University of North Texas.
wow! michigan vs north texas in primetime on saturday can't wait! pic.twitter.com/X5ZKXclUoB
— nick (@nick_pants) October 4, 2017
North Texas athletic director Wren Baker caught wind of the issue on Tuesday and quickly took action. He demanded ESPN stop airing the promo and warned the network that a cease and desist letter was on the way.
Hey @espn & @MSU_Athletics , without a doubt @MeanGreenSports is the hottest athletic dept in the country. BUT you can't just try to steal #MeanGreen. It's trademarked and has been for a very, very long time. Cease and desist letter on the way. https://t.co/7g69KeEm0T
— Wren Baker (@wrenbaker) October 4, 2017
Baker wasn't bluffing. USA Today confirmed North Texas' licensing attorneys sent a cease and desist letter to Michigan State and ESPN on Wednesday morning.
Both parties were quick to respond.
In a statement posted on Twitter, Baker said ESPN "corrected the commercial once becoming aware of the issue." He added he spoke with Michigan State athletic director Mark Hollis, "who fully understands the importance of the Mean Green brand to UNT."
Thx to ESPN for reaching out quickly & correcting Mean Green usage. I appreciate MSU AD Mark Hollis for reaching out as well. Love the national respect for our brand! pic.twitter.com/M4yhgIrwRh
— Wren Baker (@wrenbaker) October 4, 2017
It's Michigan versus Michigan State on Saturday night.
The Wolverines versus the Spartans.
The Mean Green won't play again until next weekend versus UTSA.