Justin joins Tiger and David

Nike Golf has signed 1997 British Open Champion and 1987 U.S. Amateur Champion Justin Leonard to an equipment contract, the terms of which were not disclosed. Leonard had played primarily Ben Hogan equipment during this 10-year PGA Tour career. Leonard's signing gives Nike Golf some added big-name depth to its Tour staff roster that includes Tiger Woods, Stewart Cink, Nick Faldo and David Duval. Look for Leonard to begin appearing in Nike Golf commercials almost immediately.

Leonard's multi-year contract, according to Nike Golf, calls for him to play clubs, ball, glove, bag, footwear, apparel, headwear, and accessories. The equipment deal reconnects Leonard with Nike Golf's lead club engineer Tom Stites, who designed clubs for the Hogan company before its parent, Top-Flite Golf Co., was acquired by Callaway Golf Co. (NYSE: ELY). Leonard won't have far to go, either, because Stites works out of Nike Golf's club facility in Ft. Worth, Texas, and Leonard lives in Dallas.

The Buick Invitational is expected to be Leonard's first PGA Tour start of 2005. Nike Golf said he will be carrying Nike Golf's 410cc Ignite Driver, Nike's Forged Blade Irons, Forged Pro Combo Wedges and playing the One Black golf ball. In addition to making the switch to Nike Golf's equipment and apparel, Leonard is expected to sport some new Nike eyewear later this year.

One area of equipment that will not change for Leonard is his footwear. Ironically, Leonard, according to Nike Golf, has worn its footwear the past three years. The company said Leonard will continue to wear designs from Nike Golf's Sport Performance line.