Larry Bird is suing the couple who bought his former home in Indiana. Bird claims the couple is improperly using his name to promote a bed and breakfast. As reported by ESPN:

The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court, claims Georgianna Lincoln and Christopher Cooke did not have permission to use the NBA Hall of Famer’s name with the property and are profiting off his trademark by stating the home belonged to him.

“The commercialization of Larry Bird’s name in association with his former property is wholly and completely unauthorized and is blatantly being done for the sole purpose of profiting illegally from Larry Bird’s name,” the lawsuit states.

Throughout his career with the Boston Celtics, Bird acquired several nicknames including “the Hick from French Lick” and the “Legend of French Lick.” Bird, current president of the Indiana Pacers, trademarked his name to prevent promotions and other items such as T-shirts.

Cooke named the 12-acre residence the “Legend of French Lick” and advertises it on his website as “the former home of Larry Bird.” The site encourages visitors to come see the court where Bird “spent hours practicing and perfecting his shot when at home in French Lick.”

Despite the allegations from Bird, Cooke doesn’t feel any wrongdoing has taken place. In fact, Cooke says he had knowledge of the trademark, and insists he had permission to use it.

“All I know is they told us certain things when we were considering purchasing the property, and after we bought it they had a different story.” Cooke said. “They told me we could make truthful statements about Larry’s past. Larry even called me and wished us well and thought we would do well.”

Bird’s Attorney Mark Wukmer declined to comment.

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