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Darren Rovell brings you his unique take on the business of sports: a multi-billion dollar global industry and obsession full of personalities and products. On Sports Biz, Darren will give you his up-to-date take on everything from salaries to endorsement deals to marketing and promotions, trades and tirades – in short, everything that makes sports so exciting.

Nike to Continue Kobe, LeBron Puppet Ads Through NBA Finals

Published: Tuesday, 2 Jun 2009 | 7:14 PM ET

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By: Darren Rovell
Sports Business Reporter

In what might seem like a shocking move to some, Nike will continue to run commercials featuring the Kobe Bryant and LeBron James puppets. This despite the fact that James, unlike Bryant, isn't playing in the Finals after his team—the Cleveland Cavaliers—was eliminated by the Orlando Magic.

"This is about celebrating two of the game's best players and giving fans a glimpse into their personalities, not only on the court, but away from the game," Nike spokesman Kejuan Wilkins said.

Nike [NKE Loading... () ] has run six of the puppets spots so far and plans to continue to introduce new ones throughout the Finals, which begin on Thursday night.