Blue Ribbon Sports was founded in 1964 by Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman. Initially, the company operated as a distributor for Onitsuka Tiger shoes, which were produced in Japan. The brand focused on providing high-quality athletic footwear to runners and quickly gained popularity. In 1971, Blue Ribbon Sports rebranded itself as Nike, Inc. and introduced the iconic Swoosh logo. The company expanded its product line to include apparel and equipment, becoming a leading global brand in sportswear. Today, Nike is recognized for its innovative designs and marketing strategies, influencing athletes and fitness enthusiasts worldwide.