Olympics

A dispute over the right to images of NBA players in Olympic merchandising may jeopardize the participation of Michael Jordan, Patrick Ewing and John Stockton in the Barcelona Games.

David Falk, agent for the three NBA stars, has balked at allowing his clients’ likenesses to be used, an outgrowth of a dispute involving Nike, the shoe manufacturer that has exclusive apparel contracts with many NBA players.

“USA Basketball has had a serious problem with Falk and his clients,” said Russ Granik, deputy commissioner of the NBA and vice president of USA Basketball. “As a result, a letter did go out suggesting that if his clients were uncomfortable and could not comply, they consider strongly withdrawing from the team.”