Trademark Application Filed for Locally Praised Mantra “Trust the Process”

In the midst of Philadelphia’s most successful year for professional sports, the nationally recognized and locally praised mantra Trust the Process was applied for as a trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).  On May 8, 2018, an Intent-to-Use trademark application was filed by applicant Michael Curry for “Trust the Process” used with Sports Camp and Entertainment Services Featuring Appearances by Sports Celebrities. 

The Origin of “Trust the Process”

The evolution of the phrase began in 2013, when the former General Manager of the Philadelphia 76ers, Sam Hinkie, emphasized the importance of minor victories and patience during the team’s rebuilding period. It wasn’t until 2015 that the phrase surfaced, spreading rapidly through the NBA and following the Sixers’ success as they made it to the second round of playoffs in 2018.

Will the Trademark Register?

The trademark application will be examined 4-6 months from the filing date.  If no-one previously registered a similar mark for similar services, the application will be published for opposition by third parties.  Then, if no-one opposes the application, the applicant must begin using the trademark with the services described in the application.  Follow this link for more about the Trademark Application Timeline and Process.