An official decision has been made regarding Aretha Franklin’s estate.

Reports this week shared that Kobe Bryant’s estate has parted ways with Nike, and it looks as though it may have a plan in motion to start its own brand. According to Complex, the estate’s Nike deal expired last week and a new contract has not been signed, seemingly ending the years-long relationship between the two. Bryant — who first signed with Nike back in 2003  — secured a five-year deal in April of 2016 that lasted through last Tuesday. The outlet reported the following statement from Nike: “Kobe Bryant was an important part of Nike’s deep connection to consumers. He pushed us and made everyone around him better. Though our contractual relationship has ended, he remains a deeply loved member of the Nike family.” CNBC reports that according to intellectual property attorney Josh Gerben, a recent analysis of the legal filings on behalf of Bryant’s estate show that over 13 trademarks have been filed since May of last year. The filings are leading to speculation that wife, Vanessa...