Which term describes the legal concept that protects the commercial use of a player's name, image, or likeness?

• A. Trademark
• B. Copyright
• C. Right of publicity
• D. Patent

Answer: (C)

The main concept is the right of publicity, which protects the commercial use of a person’s name, image, or likeness. It gives the individual control over how their identity is used in endorsements, advertisements, and merchandising, and it allows them to prevent unauthorized exploitation. This makes it the best fit because it directly addresses the commercial value tied to a player's identity.

It differs from trademarks, which protect brand names or logos identifying goods or services; copyright, which covers original works of authorship; and patents, which guard inventions. In sports, the right of publicity is what players rely on to license endorsements, control sponsorships, and protect their personal brand, with variations in how it’s recognized between jurisdictions and whether posthumous rights apply.