Introduction:
The journey began not with a brand, but with the equipment itself. While many think of sports tech as a modern phenomenon, the first major ‘sports patent’ dates back to January 21, 1841.
An inventor named Edwin Chaffee received U.S. Patent No. 1,939 for a ‘Method of manufacturing balls.’ Before this, balls were often made of unpredictable animal bladders or stitched leather. Chaffee’s use of ‘caoutchouc’ (natural rubber) gave birth to the consistent bounce we now take for granted in basketball, tennis, and football. It was the first time the law stepped in to protect the science of play.
Click here to download and read more Intellectual Property in Sports Fostering Innovation, Creativity, and Globa_2026
About the Author:
Adeyemi Owoade is a technology, media, and telecommunications lawyer with a strong focus on intellectual property, data protection, and emerging digital ecosystems. He is a Senior Associate in the Intellectual Property Unit at Advocaat Law Practice, where he advises clients across diverse sectors on IP protection, commercialization strategies, and regulatory compliance. His practice also covers the intersection of law, innovation, and the digital economy.
He advises clients on the protection of technologies and innovations, and manages intellectual property portfolios across multiple sectors including sports and gaming. Adeyemi has extensive experience handling assignments, licensing arrangements, and the transfer of intellectual property rights, including cross-border transactions across various jurisdictions in Africa.