1962: Philip H. Knight founds Blue Ribbon Sports (BRS) to import Japanese running shoes.
1966: The company's first retail outlet opens.
1978: Company changes its name to Nike, Inc.
1979: First line of clothing is launched and the Nike Air shoe cushioning device debuts.
1980: Nike goes public.
1981: Nike International, Ltd. is created to spearhead oversea s push.
1985: Company signs Michael Jordan to endorse a version of its Air shoe, the "Air Jordan."
1988: Cole Haan, maker of casual and dress shoes, is acquired; "Just Do It" slogan debuts.
1990: First NikeTown retail outlet opens in Portland, Oregon.
1994: Company acquires Canstar Sports Inc., the leading maker of skates and hockey equipment in the world, later renamed Bauer Nike Hockey Inc.
1995: Company signs golfer Tiger Woods to a $40 million endorsement deal.
1996: The Nike equipment division is created.
1999: Company begins selling its products directly to consumer s via its web site.
2003: Converse Inc. is acquired for $305 million.