Nike Shares Jump as Momentum Builds Under CEO Elliott Hill

Nike, Inc. is a global leader in sportswear and athletic equipment, founded in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports by University of Oregon track athlete Phil Knight and his coach Bill Bowerman. Initially, the company operated as a distributor for Japanese brand Onitsuka Tiger, selling shoes at track meets from Knight’s car. Tensions over shoe designs, especially the Tiger Cortez, led to a split in 1971, when Blue Ribbon Sports rebranded as Nike, named after the Greek goddess of victory, and launched its own line of footwear along with the iconic “Swoosh” logo designed by Carolyn Davidson[1][2][3][4]. Nike revolutionized the sports industry through innovative product design and strategic celebrity endorsements. Bill Bowerman’s innovative approach to footwear, including developing the first Nike shoe using his wife’s waffle iron for sole patterns, exemplifies the company’s commitment to performance enhancement[8]. A landmark moment was signing basketball legend Michael Jordan in 1984, which birthed the Jordan Brand—one of the most successful and culturally influential sneaker lines ever, with over 35 signature models[5]. Nike also pioneered visible Air technology with the 1987 release of the Air Max 1, designed by Tinker Hatfield, marking a shift in sneaker aesthetics and performance that remains influential today[5]. Beyond footwear, Nike offers sportswear, fitness trackers, and accessories, continually integrating technology to enhance athletic performance and customer experience[1][7]. Headquartered in Beaverton, Oregon, Nike operates subsidiaries including Jordan Brand and Converse. Current leadership includes CEO John Donahoe and Executive Chairman Mark Parker. The company emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility, investing in employee wellbeing and community programs like the N7 Fund supporting Indigenous youth[1][7]. Nike’s blend of cutting-edge technology, cultural relevance, and athletic excellence secures its position as a dominant force in the global sports industry and a trendsetter i