The mark NCAA, which stands for events and services related to the National Collegiate Athletic Association, is what type of mark?

• A. Service mark
• B. Word mark
• C. Design mark
• D. Patent mark

Answer: (A)

Marks are categorized by whether they identify services or goods. The NCAA mark is used in connection with events and related services—organizing, hosting, promoting those events, plus related services like broadcasting and sponsorships. Because its primary function is to identify the source of services rather than tangible products, it functions as a service mark. A word mark is just the textual form and could apply to services, but the crucial point here is that it identifies services. A design mark would involve a graphic or logo, which isn’t specified, and patent marks aren’t used for branding at all. Therefore, the mark is a service mark.